How to Stretch Your Dollar and Live It Up in a City College

By the SMU Social Media Team

Being in a city campus might be the epitome of awesomeness — who doesn’t love after-class movies or a lunchtime shopping spree? But such proximity to a plethora of leisure options also spells for a massive financial drain. Hence, here’s a student-approved guide to maximising SMU’s central location, without breaking the bank. (Pro-tip: Keep your matriculation card with you at all times!)

Cheap eats around campus

Food forms the bulk of most students’ expenditure. But good eats don’t always have to put a hole in your pocket and leaves you more spare cash to spend on school materials and other necessities. Food courts such as Koufu at the SMU concourse and Food Republic above Bras Basah MRT station are obvious options, plus they offer discounts to SMU students.

But if you’re looking for more choices, how about wallet-friendly pasta at Tea Party or the indulgent Hong Seng Curry Rice available on campus? And just a little further down the road next to Rendevous Hotel is Baja Fresh which also offer discounts to SMU students. Looking for more inspiration? Head over to Instagram and check out the hashtag #FoodAroundSMU.

Student concessions

You might already know that your student status can get you discounts, but how often do you bother learning about the latest deals? Be it student concessions for bus rides or entertainment activities like the movies, Escape Room, KTV and art exhibitions or performances. Plus, keep an eye out for student discounts when purchasing a laptop, software like the Microsoft or Adobe suite, or even flights (Pro-tip: student travel company STA Travel even has an office at the SMU Concourse).

Free activities in town

Live the high life, literally, by checking out rooftop gardens in the vicinity. If you’re one of those who love gorgeous views but hate the heat, then the 55th floor of ION Orchard is a great choice. Situated right in the heart of Singapore, you get a brilliant panoramic view of the city and the best part – you’ll be indoors! Otherwise, take in some fresh air at the rooftop garden of Orchard Central, on levels 11 and 12.

Or catch up on culture with a free lunchtime concert by the Singapore Symphony Orchestra at the historical Victoria Concert Hall; public performances at the Esplanade; or enjoy free entry to all National Heritage Board museums as a Singaporean student – foreign students enjoy concessions as well!

Shop till you drop

Affordable retail therapy isn’t an oxymoron, with plenty of places in town that provide budget-friendly buys. Scape Underground has plenty of stalls selling blogshop-like items going for a fraction of the price at its regular flea markets. Meanwhile, outlets like Refash — which is founded by our very own SMU alumnus — at The Cathay sell pre-loved items at prices starting from just $5, and they hold store-wide sales pretty often too. (Also, read out blog entry on Refash.)