A Summer of Self-Discovery and Personal Growth: Insights from the SMU Global Summer Programme (GSP)
Disha Dinesh Lakhiani wanted to push beyond familiar boundaries and learn in a multicultural environment, leading her to join the SMU Global Summer Programme (GSP). For the Atlas SkillTech University student, the GSP struck a good balance of academic learning and hands-on experiences. She’s formed deep connections with peers from diverse backgrounds, and gained broader perspectives, deeper curiosity, and confidence.
What if your summer break is more than just a holiday — one that allows you to explore new cultures, gain global perspectives, and grow both academically and personally? The SMU Global Summer Programme (GSP) offers just that.
Over four weeks, SMU and international university students come together to learn, collaborate, and earn academic credits, all while building friendships and broadening their horizons.
Hosted in Singapore, the 2026 edition of the GSP will offer two sessions:
- Session 1: 29 June – 24 July 2026
- Session 2: 13 July – 7 August 2026
For Disha Dinesh Lakhiani, a student from Atlas SkillTech University, the GSP was more than just a summer programme — it was a journey of self-discovery and personal growth.
Read on to discover her biggest takeaways from the programme.
What motivated you to join the SMU Global Summer Programme (GSP), and what stood out the most about your experience?
I wanted to push beyond familiar boundaries and learn in a multicultural environment. Singapore’s blend of cultures fascinated me, and SMU’s interactive pedagogy felt refreshing.
What stood out the most was how practical the lessons from the classes and cultural exchanges were. The SMU GSP offered both academic learning and personal growth.
I came back with broader perspectives, deeper curiosity, and confidence to express my ideas on a global stage.
How did the friendships and global connections you built at the GSP enrich your personal and academic journey?
The friendships formed at the GSP were the highlight of my experience. Working and living with students from various countries taught me patience, adaptability, and cultural respect. Exploring Singapore together, from late-night food hunts to weekend adventures, made our bond even stronger.
These connections remind me how collaborations and friendships can transcend borders and inspire me both personally and academically. To this date, we’re still in touch, sharing updates, ideas, and even travel plans!
How did the GSP prepare you to thrive in a global and multicultural environment?
The GSP has taught me to communicate and collaborate more effectively across various cultures.
Working on projects with peers from diverse backgrounds has broadened my perspectives and helped me to thrive in environments with differing opinions, ideas, and approaches.
Through active listening and adaptability, I’ve discovered there’s strength in diversity.
Which were your favourite classes and activities during the GSP?
I took the Sustainable Entrepreneurship course, which offered a new perspective on purpose-driven business.
My favourite workshop was the porcelain-making session at the Luzerne headquarters — I found the hands-on experience creative and calming.
I also loved the cultural tour through Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam, where I learned more about Singapore’s diverse heritage.
Although I've been to Singapore several times previously, experiencing it as a student with new friends from around the world made it more meaningful and inspiring.
What surprised you the most about your GSP experience?
What surprised me most was how quickly I felt at home. I had expected formality, but instead found the environment warm, inclusive, and full of energy. Singapore also felt safe and inspiring with its beautiful mix of cultures.
The professors were approachable, and the GSP struck a good balance between academic learning and hands-on experiences.
Most of all, I didn’t expect to connect deeply with people from vastly different backgrounds. It reminded me that human connections can make any new place feel familiar.
Looking back, what’s the biggest takeaway from the GSP?
The biggest takeaway from the GSP was adaptability. Working with people of diverse backgrounds taught me to listen actively, speak thoughtfully, and consider multiple perspectives.
The programme has also helped me discover my strengths and build confidence.
I’ve learned to stay calm when things don’t go as planned and to find strength in collaboration. This mindset of staying flexible, focused, and self-assured continues to guide my studies, work, and daily life.
What’s your advice for those considering joining the next edition of the GSP?
Just go for it!
The GSP is not just about studying abroad; it’s about discovering new aspects of yourself through global connections and experiences. You’ll learn, unlearn, and grow in ways you least expect. It can be intense, but also inspiring and unforgettable.
Get ready to dive in with an open mind and let the experience shape you.
Ready to embark on a memorable summer experience? Applications for the SMU Global Summer Programme (GSP) 2026 will start from 10 January to 15 April 2026. Explore more about how the GSP can enrich you here.
