Name of activity/programme/experience
ACE Learning Trip to Shenzhen
What motivated you to participate in this programme/activity?
I was motivated by the opportunity to experience technology and innovation in Shenzhen first hand, and to see how IT solutions are applied across industries. The chance learn from tech giants like Huawei and Tencent as well as the chance to meet like-minded peers was particularly appealing.
Please describe your overall experience
The trip was a truly eye-opening and fruitful experience, combining hands-on demonstrations, company visits, and cultural exposure. It was both educational and fun, and I also made new friends along the way, sharing many memorable experiences that extended beyond the formal programme!
In what ways did this experience add value to your SMU education and/or professional development?
This experience allowed me to interact with cutting-edge solutions in real-world settings giving me insights that are difficult to gain in a classroom or lecture. It elucidated how technology can transform our everyday life across various industries, which reinforces the relevance of software engineering , a field which I aspire to enter, even as AI reshapes the workforce.
Why Asia? What advice would you give to juniors or fellow students who are considering a similar experience?
Asia is a hub of rapid technological innovation, offering firsthand exposure to how software, AI, and digital ecosystems are applied in practice. Opportunities to visit established firms, social enterprises, and incubators are rare, and there is no better way to explore the industry than by experiencing it yourself. I would definitely encourage juniors or fellow students to participate, as such experiences provide invaluable personal growth, professional insight, and connections with peers and industry leaders.
