Congratulations on getting into SMU! Starting your university journey is a big deal, and we’re excited for you. As you start a new chapter in life and gear up for your first semester in university, it can feel a tad overwhelming.  

Not to worry, we’ve got you covered! Here are five essential tips to help you get settled and make the most of your time at SMU. 

1. Get to know your campus

Exploring the SMU campus is the first step to feeling at home. Participating in freshmean orientation camps is a fantastic way to familiarise yourself with the campus. Here, you’ll be introduced to various locations and facilities (including study spots) of the campus, while meeting new friends.  

Don’t forget to take some time to familiarise yourself with the routes to get to the various MRT stations nearby. After all, SMU is extremely accessible with four MRT stations within walking distance: Bras Basah, Bencoolen, City Hall, and Dhoby Ghaut.  

Given the downtown location of the city campus, there’s a wide range of food options in the vicinity, including budget options!  

Knowing your way around will make life a lot easier and enable you to make the most of everything SMU has to offer. 

2. Build lasting friendships with your peers

Making friends and building connections is key to a fulfilling university experience. For starters, consider joining one or more orientation camps at SMU. They are usually held in July to early August.  

These include:  

• SMU Freshmen Orientation organised by the Office of Student Life and SMU Students’ Association  
• Orientation camp by your school’s student body such as Metamorphosis, Oikos’ Camp and Bondue’s Camp  
• Camps by CCA student bodies (e.g. International Connections, Arts & Cultural Fraternity, Sports Union).  

Participating in these camps can help you build closer connections with your peers and seniors, making finding project group mates easier as you progress through university. Plus, here’s where you can get some tips on navigating the BOSS bidding process.  

If you miss these camps, don’t worry! You can still attend Vivace, SMU’s annual CCA fair, to explore the various CCAs available before joining one (or more). Networking events hosted by CCAs and faculty student bodies are also great for meeting new people!

3. Organise your schedule

Time management is essential for success. Most modules in your first year are preassigned, so take the time to understand the modules you will be taking.  

Use planners or digital tools to keep track of important dates such as exams and project deadlines to organise your schedule effectively.  

By staying organised, you’ll be able to balance your academic and extracurricular activities efficiently, reducing stress and acing your semester. 

4. Utilise your academic resources to the fullest

Take advantage of the academic resources available at SMU.  

Attend academic briefings by your faculty to get an idea of what to expect. Figure out your study style – whether it’s visual, kinesthetic, or auditory – and develop good note-taking habits from the start.  

Don’t hesitate to reach out to your professors during their office hours for extra support and guidance.  

These resources are designed to help you succeed academically, so make the most of them.