A Summer of Learning and Global Friendships: Insights from SMU’s Global Summer Programme (GSP)
Held in Singapore, the SMU Global Summer Programme (GSP) is a four-week experiential programme offered to SMU and university students from around the world. SMU alumna Cass Zheng shares her experience—from engaging coursework and cultural exchanges to lifelong friendships.
What if you could meet peers from around the world, while earning academic credits during the summer break? The SMU Global Summer Programme (GSP) offers you the opportunity to do just that!
The SMU Global Summer Programme (GSP) is a four-week experiential global learning experience held in Singapore. Open to SMU and university students from all over the world, it offers students a marvellous opportunity to forge global networks and broaden their horizons. At the same time, students get to earn academic credits during the summer break.
Hear from SMU School of Social Sciences alumna Cass Zheng, who participated in the GSP in 2022, as she shares more about how she made the most out of her university experience through the GSP.
Why did you choose to do a summer programme in Singapore, and why SMU?
I was looking forward to spending my summer in school in Singapore, especially since I had been interning and missed being in school.
After researching my options, I found that the SMU Global Summer Programme (GSP) was the most viable and interesting choice. With my last semester at SMU fast approaching, choosing the GSP was the perfect way to make the most of my time.
When considering SMU’s Global Summer Programme (GSP), what interest you the most about it?
I was most interested in two aspects of the GSP: the course offerings and the opportunity to meet peers from all over the world.
I took the Screening Asia: History, Society, and Politics in Films module during the GSP. I had been interested in the module while at SMU, but hadn’t had the opportunity to take it until I joined the GSP.
I had missed out on the opportunity to embark on global exposure programmes due to the pandemic, and the GSP provided me with a great opportunity to meet students from various countries and diverse backgrounds while fulfilling academic requirements.
At the same time, I was also drawn to the programme’s non-academic offerings, such as the field trips, which enriched my overall experience.
Share with us more about your GSP experience. What’s the most memorable part of the GSP?
The most memorable part of GSP was spending time with the amazing friends from abroad and introducing them to Singaporean food at a local food court.
As one of the few Singaporeans in the group, I felt the pressure of being a good local guide. Thankfully, the group was eager to try new food, and their enthusiasm made the experience more enjoyable.
Beyond sharing meals, we had meaningful conversations and made unforgettable memories. In class, I was exposed to diverse perspectives from peers of various backgrounds. Outside of class, I did my best to show them around the SMU city campus and Singapore, introducing them to key landmarks and local delicacies.
We enjoyed our time together so much and remain in touch today.
What were your biggest takeaways from the GSP?
The biggest takeaway from the GSP is the friendships I’ve built through the programme. Today, I'm proud to say that I have friends from all over the world, all connected by one shared experience—the SMU GSP.
Recently, one of my GSP friends had a stopover in Singapore during a family trip, and we met for lunch. As we reminisced about our time in the programme, we couldn’t help but feel grateful that we found lifelong connections there.
I know that no matter where life takes us, I'll always find a sense of home in these friendships.
What advice do you have for students interested in applying for the GSP?
Don't hesitate to apply! Once you’re in the programme, make the most of your summer experience by joining as many activities as possible.
Put yourself out there, meet new people, and embrace every opportunity—you never know who you'll cross paths with. But one thing’s for sure: the SMU GSP will be full of wonderful surprises, just as it was for me!
Ready to embark on an exciting summer experience? Secure your spot here! Registration for GSP 2025 is open until 15 April 2025.
