Sam Huang, an independent and passionate investor in stocks and cryptocurrency since age 15, is an incoming freshman at SMU. He chose SMU for its unique blend of computing and law courses, anticipating the demand for expertise in both fields due to the rise of AI and other technologies. Sam is excited about SMU’s vibrant campus life, its location, and the career opportunities it offers. He looks forward to studying subjects he loves and engaging with new peers and experiences.
Nicole Sim, an incoming SMU freshman, is passionate about mental health advocacy and community service. Attracted by SMU’s strong employment prospects, hands-on learning, and interactive seminar-style classes, she aims to weave her advocacy into her academic and extracurricular activities. Nicole is eager to develop critical thinking skills, engage with professors and peers, and immerse herself in SMU’s vibrant campus life.
Benjamin Mathew, a Chinese-Indian incoming SMU freshman, studied Malay as a second language. He is passionate about music, playing multiple instruments, and leading his church’s youth ministry. Attracted to SMU's vibrant and accessible campus in the city, Benjamin appreciates the seminar-style classes and interactive learning environment. He looks forward to immersing himself in the SMU community, making new connections, and participating in campus life.
Irdina Jayni, an incoming SMU freshman, has a keen interest in insects and art, visiting insect museums on her travels and photographing rare specimens for her projects. She values SMU’s seminar-style classes for their interactive nature and looks forward to the diverse opportunities for global exposure, such as overseas exchanges and internships. Eager to expand her knowledge and engage with the SMU community, Irdina is excited about the personal and academic growth opportunities ahead.
Zen Ho, an incoming SMU freshman, is dedicated to promoting mental wellness. He founded a mindfulness start-up offering activities like meditation, nature bathing, and ceramic painting. Zen is passionate about philosophy, particularly Daoism, and enjoys reading extensively on the subject. Drawn to SMU's interdisciplinary curriculum at the College of Integrative Studies, he looks forward to exploring various courses and designing his own major.
Ally Tan, an incoming freshman at SMU, enjoys playing the drums and appreciates the employability of SMU graduates, which she believes reflects the holistic education offered. She is drawn to SMU's central location in the city for its vibrant energy and opportunities. Ally is looking forward to engaging in university life and participating in various campus activities.
Ng Zhe Bin, an incoming freshman at SMU, is passionate about shuffle dance, jump rope, and history, particularly WWII and the Cold War. Drawn to SMU for its seminar-style classes and small class sizes that foster active debates and discussions, he also values the university’s emphasis on communication skills. Zhe Bin looks forward to engaging in campus activities and building lasting friendships.
Loh Kar Wei, an incoming freshman at SMU, is a self-taught game developer and cybersecurity gamification startup founder. Passionate about addressing the talent gap in cybersecurity, she was drawn to SMU's guaranteed second major programme, and plans to pursue legal studies as a second major. After two years away from books, Kar Wei looks forward to meeting peers who share her interests.
Incoming freshman Lai Teck Yong is returning to school after spending several years in the police force. The stock and crypto enthusiast was drawn to SMU’s seminar-style classes and the vibrant student community. After years of working, he looks forward to heading back to the classroom and making new connections at SMU.
Incoming freshman Joseph Khoo enjoys cycling, weightlifting, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He shares that he chose SMU because of its strong employment prospects, focus on practical applications, and internship opportunities. Joseph was also drawn to SMU’s guaranteed second major and central location. He looks forward to forging lasting bonds at SMU.
Passionate about programming, incoming freshman Isaac Koh has previously helped develop a digital stamping application during his time at Nanyang Polytechnic. Drawn to SMU’s seminar-style classes and focus on real-world experiences, Isaac hopes to develop strong communication skills and lasting friendships during his time at SMU. He also looks forward to exploring the various food options around the campus.
