[Photo Credit: Tay Zhi Xiang]
Embarking on an exchange programme can be a life-changing adventure, offering unique cultural and academic experiences. Tay Zhi Xiang, our MITB Artificial Intelligence student recently completed his exchange programme at Erasmus University Rotterdam in the Netherlands. Here’s a glimpse into his unforgettable journey.
When I first arrived in the Netherlands, I was filled with a mix of excitement and apprehension. It was my first time in Europe, and I have heard tales of opportunistic theft and potential racism. However, those fears quickly dissipated as I found Rotterdam to be a safe, welcoming and vibrant city.
The academic structure at Erasmus University was quite different from SMU. The compressed six-week terms and a lighter load of just two modules per term provided me with the perfect opportunity to balance my studies with travel across Europe. I was able to explore cities like Budapest, Vienna, Prague, Zagreb and Dubrovnik.
[Charles bridge in Prague]
At Erasmus University, the classroom was a microcosm of intellectual exchange. The vibrant discussions and projects with my Dutch classmates were often a whirlwind of ideas, debates and compromises. I was struck by how my European counterparts were unafraid of asking questions or challenge ideas in class – a stark contrast to the more reserved approach in many Asian cultures. I have also forged friendships with students from various European countries, particularly those hailing from Eastern Europe whose insights into life and career opportunities in Western Europe were truly eye-opening.
There was a dinner with my Dutch-Vietnamese project mate that left an indelible mark on my exchange experience. She shared her family's migration story, with her ancestors fleeing Vietnam as refugees and eventually settling down in the Netherlands. Listening to her talk about navigating her dual identity – embracing Dutch culture while honoring her Vietnamese heritage, prompted me to reflect deeply on my own cultural roots. This personal exchange not only deepened my appreciation for my own Asian background but also highlighted the importance of staying connected to one’s cultural values while being open to new experiences.
This exchange was not just an academic endeavour; it was also a journey of personal growth. I found myself adapting my communication style, using more global metaphors to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. The boldness of my European classmates in class discussions inspired me to step out of my comfort zone and engage more actively in intellectual discourse. Exposure to different work cultures and career perspectives have also opened my eyes to the possibility of a future in Europe, whether through job applications or seeking a transfer via a global multinational corporation.
As I look back on my time in Rotterdam, I can confidently say it was an exhilarating and transformative journey that expanded my horizons, broadened my worldview, challenged my cultural understanding, and equipped me with invaluable skills for a global workforce. To anyone considering an exchange programme, I wholeheartedly recommend taking the leap. Rotterdam, with its diverse culture and modern infrastructure, provides the perfect introduction to Europe, especially for those new to Western societies.
[Sunset in Delfshaven, Rotterdam]
My advice to prospective exchange students is to embrace the local lifestyle, represent SMU and your country with pride, and stay open-minded and collaborative. Most importantly, hold onto your cultural values – they are the lens through which you’ll view and appreciate your new experiences.
