A global perspective
Connor Bradford shares how studying at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore built his global perspective, confidence and connections.
Connor Bradford
Why I chose my host uni:
I chose Nanyang Technological University (NTU) because it ticked every box – world-class academics (top 15 globally), a beautiful campus and a location in Singapore, one of the most exciting and connected hubs in Southeast Asia. It felt like the perfect place to study hard and experience a totally different part of the world.
How I found applying to my host uni:
The process was a bit long and not super straightforward, but manageable. I had to apply for a Singapore Student Pass from home with more than just transcripts, and then once I arrived at NTU there was another screening process to officially confirm everything. It was basically a two-stage visa process, so it took a bit of patience.
How I found learning in a different academic system:
It was a pretty big shift from AUT, definitely more intense and structured. I had more classes and they were longer too (5 x 3-hour workshops), plus a strong focus on presentations and group work. It took a bit of adjusting, but overall the lecturers were really supportive of exchange students, which made it a lot easier to settle in.
What I gained from this experience:
I came away with a completely new global perspective from living in such an international environment. Academically, I definitely grew stronger from being in a more intense system than I was used to. But the biggest highlight was the people and experiences!
Top tips for other students
- Keep an open mind and be ready for new and unexpected experiences!
- Join orientation week activities, it’s a great way to meet new people quickly
- Learn how transport, food and basic admin works in the first week – life is much smoother after figuring this out
- Hawker centres are a must – incredible food for ridiculously cheap prices
- Use the MRT as much as possible. Super cheap, efficient and basically gets you anywhere you need to go
- Don’t blow all your money in Singapore. Save a portion for travel, because nearby countries like Vietnam and Thailand are insanely cheap and perfect for trips
About Connor and his student exchange
AUT degree:
Bachelor of Business in Accounting and Finance
Host uni:
Nanyang Technological University
Host country:
Singapore
5 favourite things
Favourite place in my host city:
Sentosa Island! Awesome range of theme parks and attractions
Best dish/food I tried:
All dishes at hawker centres (cheap dining complexes) were amazing
Most useful thing I packed to take with me:
Playing cards
Favourite thing about my host uni:
How incredibly advanced and impressive the campus is, especially iconic buildings like The Hive, which is easily one of the coolest and most unique study spaces I’ve ever seen
Best trip I took outside of my host city:
Vietnam, with incredible food and the Ha Giang Loop being a true once-in-a-lifetime highlight