Seeking Singapore’s Wisdom: Lessons Carved by the Lion City

Perspective is gained through the act of experiencing, not the concept of experience. 

Lesson #1: Common Ground Exists Across All Cultures

The program introduced me to a cultural kaleidoscope. From London, Calgary, Hong Kong, Philadelphia, Scandinavia, and many more, I have engaged in discussions that exposed me to a rich tapestry of cultures, traditions, and worldviews. 

Tom Schulman puts it best, “medicine, law, business, engineering…are noble pursuits …necessary to sustain life…but poetry, beauty, romance, love: these are what we stay alive for.” Whether it is sports, fashion, or music; the program connected people through their love of things. From the love of food to the love of nature, the love of sightseeing to the love of learning, it is vital to recognise that differences do not divide us but instead are the things that unite us.

In my experience of building an international transdisciplinary network, individuals are not one-dimensional, they are mosaics of beliefs, experiences, and emotions. People are more like others than they initially think because passion transcends cultural barriers and brings people together.

Lesson #2: Plant the Seed of Respect for Nature & the World will Blossom

I wish to live in a world that not only exists but flourishes alongside the natural environment. Singapore’s green infrastructure seamlessly integrates nature into design. Incorporating features such as vertical gardens, rooftop vegetation, and energy-efficient systems, not only offers aesthetics but also provides a natural coolant that reduces the urban heat island effect.

Studying 3D printing provided a solid foundation for the potential of additive manufacturing and sustainability on a global scale. As part of the course, we were given an opportunity to explore how additive manufacturing relates to our passion. I had a chance to listen and learn from my peers’ research on 3D printing nanomaterials, producing dentures, and the additive manufacturing production of EV car chassis, movie props, and even chocolate!

Taking inspiration from Singapore’s pioneering landscape, I decided to further research the transformative potential of 3D printing in Infrastructure and Engineering Services. Presenting my findings on the benefits and costs of this technology as well as its power to redefine the norms of traditional practices to my peers was a rewarding experience

Lesson #3: Independence is Not a Task but a Continuous Commitment

Living away from home illuminated the importance of adaptability. From managing finances to doing laundry, and navigating the MRT, I learned that independence is a continuous journey. Knowing when to ask for help, recognising that growth comes from taking risks, and embracing challenges alongside my peers empowered me to make a commitment to never stop learning, growing, and adapting.

Overall, being able to experience the 4-week GEM Trailblazer Summer Program at Nanyang Technological University Singapore equipped me with tools to foster new perspectives, discoveries, and growth. Motivated by curiosity and a passion for STEM, I chose to embark on this journey to broaden my outlook and expand my knowledge as a global citizen.

Sophie Vo
Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology
3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
Global Short Programs Travel Scholarship