At the School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences (SPMS), we believe that global experiences are invaluable for personal and academic growth. Through the GEM Explorer Financial Assistance, students can embark on enriching exchange programmes without the heavy weight of financial concerns. This support helps cover travel and living expenses, allowing students to fully immerse themselves in new environments, cultures, and academic opportunities. Here, five SPMS students share their reflections on how this programme shaped their exchange journeys.
Discovering Tradition and History in Japan
For Kong Wai Seng, the opportunity to study in Japan was more than just an academic experience — it was a chance to dive into the country’s rich cultural heritage.
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“The GEM Explorer Financial Assistance programme provided by SPMS for my semester exchange to Japan has benefitted me significantly. Not only did it help fund my accommodation and travel fees, but it also gave me the opportunity to experience Japan’s traditions through cultural activities and visits to historical landmarks. By exploring different prefectures, I broadened my perspectives and smoothly transitioned into my new environment. Overall, I was able to support myself financially and enjoy an enriching exchange experience,” Wai Seng shared. |
A Glimpse into Astrophysics at McGill University
For Seah Chun Zhao, Lucas, a semester at McGill University opened new horizons in his understanding of physics.
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“Coming from [a background] using matrices for coordinate transformations, [and moving to] using partial derivatives for that was an eye-opener. This was one of the many new things I got to learn during my exchange at McGill University, made possible with the help of the GEM Explorer Financial Assistance. I had the chance to meet and discuss astrophysics with professors who had worked at telescope arrays around the world. I even experienced the North American Solar Eclipse on 8th April 2024, sparking many discussions about its significance to general relativity. This exchange has truly piqued my interest in astrophysics, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity,” Lucas reflected. |
Building Knowledge and Friendships in the Netherlands
Cheung Chun On found his exchange experience in the Netherlands both academically and personally rewarding, thanks to the support from SPMS.
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“The GEM Explorer Financial Assistance has been a huge help during my exchange in the Netherlands. It relieved financial stress, allowing me to focus on my studies and make the most of the experience. The attached photo shows my campus building’s interior — a space where I’ve learned, collaborated with classmates, and grown both academically and personally. This support has made my exchange journey smoother and more meaningful, and I’m truly grateful for it,” Chun On shared. |
Academic and Cultural Immersion Abroad
For Donavan Poh Wei Xuan, the financial support made a world of difference, allowing him to fully engage with his studies and the culture around him.
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“The GEM Explorer Financial Assistance significantly enriched my exchange experience. It alleviated financial burdens, enabling me to focus fully on my courses, participate in collaborative projects, and connect with professors and peers without financial worries. This support also allowed me to attend academic events and access valuable resources, enhancing my learning experience. I’m incredibly thankful for the opportunity to immerse myself in both academic and cultural aspects of my exchange,” Donavan said. |
A Transformative Exchange Experience
For Yuen Jia Qing, Ivan, the exchange programme became a life-changing adventure, made possible through SPMS’s support.
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“The exchange programme has been an incredibly enriching experience, and this award has played a pivotal role in making it even more memorable. It provided me with the financial support and motivation to fully immerse myself in the programme’s cultural, academic, and social aspects. With fewer financial constraints, I could participate in activities, travel, and connect with peers from diverse backgrounds, broadening my global outlook. This opportunity strengthened my academic growth and helped me build lifelong friendships and unforgettable memories,” Ivan shared. |
Bringing Global Perspectives Back to SPMS
These heartfelt reflections show how the GEM Explorer Financial Assistance opens doors for students to explore the world, expand their knowledge, and form lasting connections. By stepping out of their comfort zones and embracing new cultures, these students returned with fresh perspectives and renewed inspiration to contribute to their communities at SPMS and beyond.