GRIP, Research Abroad Stepping Into The Forest With New Friends

Engineering Research in Singapore - National University of Singapore

“OH MY GOD,” I exclaimed when I saw one of the most beautiful views of an overgrown train track in the middle of the Clementi Forest surrounded by the most exotic trees I had ever seen. This view on my first hike in Singapore took my breath away. I will always be thankful to the program at the National University of Singapore (NUS) that hosts GRIP students as they did an amazing job at making the assimilation process into Singapore extremely smooth. One of the best things they did for me was introducing me to a local university student named Ryan. Ryan has been an amazing resource not only for questions regarding the university but also for recommendations on must-see spots in Singapore as well as the best food and entertainment spots. Thus far, the best recommendation Ryan has made was to join the NUS Rovers Club on their hike into Clementi Forest. 

Initially, I was nervous to sign up for the hike as I would be surrounded by other locals that I had never met before. Luckily, I was pleasantly surprised by their friendly and welcoming demeanor. The local students were just as interested in my experiences in the states as I was in their experiences in Singapore! Throughout the hike, I learned more about the culture of Singaporeans and was given many more recommendations on places I had to explore before leaving Singapore. Surrounded by good company and incredible views, I had one of the most memorable moments of my trip. I also got to experience hiking in a new country, and it was very different from any hike I had done in the past. There were many jumps across rivers and slips into the mud, and I did get quite dirty. But these moments were followed by smiles and laughter. I exchanged numbers with my new friends as we made plans to try Malaysian cuisine they recommended soon.

This hike has greatly enhanced my experience so far because it has exposed me to the culture and communities in Singapore and shown me how living in a different environment outside the United States can affect your life. For example, you could not find the trees and flowers I found growing in Clementi Forest anywhere in the states, as they can only thrive in the very hot and humid year-round climate that Singapore has. These types of experiences abroad are crucial for personal growth and development and I am excited to see what I continue to learn and experience during my stay in Singapore.