Meet Incoming Freshman of SMU 2024 – Irdina Jayni
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.
Driven by an insatiable curiosity, Irdina devours books, video essays and podcasts to gather as much information as she can about every facet of her interests. Engaging in stimulating conversations is also something she enjoys. “I find social interaction and relationships to be very important,” she asserts, “as they are essential for personal growth and provide a deeper comprehension of our world.”
Beyond this, Irdina is fascinated with insects, especially mantises, and finds joy in capturing their beauty and uniqueness through art. She loves visiting insect museums on her travels, where she seizes the opportunity to photograph rare specimens for future art projects.
The biggest draw to SMU
One aspect of SMU that deeply resonated with Irdina was the interactive learning environment afforded by its seminar-style classes. “I value the opportunity to engage directly with professors, to be able to ask questions and seek clarifications in real-time, rather than having to wait until after class to email the lecturer,” she says.
The SMU experience
Irdina also finds the array of opportunities for global exposure at SMU particularly appealing. Whether it’s through an overseas exchange programme, international internship, overseas community-service programme, summer school or others, there’s something suited to every preference. As Irdina puts it, “experiences that can be starkly different from our life in Singapore will undoubtedly contribute to my academic and personal growth.”
Looking forward to the future
As the start of the school year approaches, Irdina is eagerly anticipating classes that will expand her knowledge and satiate her hunger for learning. Besides that, she’s also looking forward to meeting people in the diverse SMU community and forging friendships that will last a lifetime.
