1. Pre-Trip Projections Assignment Chiangmai Study Trip 2015/16 Tourism

University Scholars Programme

Anticipation

When travelling overseas, I always seek to not only have fun, but to also seize the opportunity to learn about different cultures and history. As such, I am especially excited for the overseas study trip to Chiang Mai, more so given how Chiang Mai – a developing economy within a country that has a dominant…

Pre- trip Reflection

I believe that this overseas trip to Chiang Mai, Thailand is an excellent opportunity for the cohort in general to work towards embracing the USP mission and vision. The research opportunity that has arisen due to this trip will help us work towards gaining valuable information that makes us ready for the challenges hurled…

Pre-trip Reflection

In the University Scholars Programme, there is a great focus on having “an intellectually stimulating environment” that presents students with an enriched and diversified academic experience. Indeed, going on an overseas study trip can provide us with an experience not easily replicated in classrooms, or anywhere else in the local context. Having been to Bangkok before, I…

Of Elephants and a Decade Past

I must first admit that I had been to Chiang Mai once before. That was more than ten years ago; I was barely five years old. My family went to the Mae Taeng Elephant Park during that trip, but my memories of riding the elephant there were hazy, almost dreamlike. I could only vaguely remember…

Pre-Trip Projections

The upcoming TOPS trip is unlike any other overseas study trip I have experienced before because of my capacity as a USP scholar in NTU. As a USP scholar, I feel that certain qualities and skills are and should be expected of myself, and I hope to develop these during the trip. Having an inquisitive…

Pre-trip Reflections

Being a part of NTU’s USP has undoubtedly been an enriching and fulfilling experience for me thus far. I feel incredibly grateful that I’ve been given an opportunity to travel to Chiang Mai with my peers to learn more about the country’s rich heritage. I’m part of the Heritage group, and we’ve been tasked to research on the…

Pre-trip Reflections

One week in Chiang Mai conducting fieldwork for a research project; this is definitely the first time I have ever embarked on a study trip of such a scale. As an integral part of my university education, USP is not only an academic environment which provides a holistic curriculum that promotes intellectual stimulation and interdisciplinary…

Pre-Trip Reflection

The USP vision is to “nurture creative and reflective global citizens devoted to understanding the social, cultural, economic and environmental forces that give shape to our ever-changing world”. TOPS is a great way to realise this vision and it allows us to learn even better by immersing ourselves in intercultural experiences. Being a Fieldwork and…

Pre-trip by Joel

For this trip to Chiang Mai, our group’s aim is to spread awareness about elephant sustainability. In particular, our sub-group’s goal is to determine the sustainability and effects of elephant poaching and spread awareness or figure out solutions if there is a problem. This trip is my first study trip and will be my first…

Pre-trip Reflection

When you think of Thailand, most Singaporeans will think of its capital, Bangkok. When you think of Bangkok, you think of the vibrancy in the city, the robust flavors and smells, the interesting profiles of the locals, and of course, shopping. People rarely think of Chiang Mai at first thought. I didn’t know the climate…