Name of activity/programme/experience
Overseas Community Service: Project Cloud Nine 8.0
What motivated you to participate in this programme/activity?
I joined initially as an associate because I have always valued serving communities and creating meaningful impact for children. Over time, I also wanted to challenge myself to grow as a Project Leader and take on greater responsibility.
Please describe your overall experience.
It was a meaningful two weeks where we taught English through lessons centred on values, sustainability, health and wellness. Beyond teaching, we immersed ourselves in the local culture and formed genuine connections with the students.
In what ways did this experience add value to your SMU education and/or professional development?
Leading the project strengthened my leadership and stakeholder management skills, especially in balancing team dynamics, community needs, and resource constraints. It deepened my empathy and social awareness, shaping me into a more thoughtful and responsible leader both academically and professionally.
Why Asia? What advice would you give to juniors or fellow students who are considering a similar experience?
Asia is close to home yet incredibly diverse, offering rich cultural exposure and opportunities to create tangible impact. I encourage juniors to go in with an open mind and allow the experience to broaden their perspectives while learning from the communities they serve.
