Italy, Spain, Switzerland - Pre-Departure Briefing for - Global Relations Office | 4 April 2018 - NUS
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Pre-Departure Briefing for
Italy, Spain, Switzerland
Global Relations Office | 4 April 2018
Who are we? Global Relations Office (GRO) What can we do for you?
Agenda 1. Highlights of SEP 2. Preparing for SEP 3. What to expect at your destination 4. Settling in 5. Homecoming 6. Sharing by returning NUS exchange students 7. Networking
STUDENT EXCHANGE PROGRAMME Stand out as a global citizen and future-ready graduate by embarking on SEP – our longest-running and largest student mobility programme – during your time at NUS!
What is SEP?
SEP is an opportunity for students to:
1 Spend one or two semesters studying at a
partner university
2 Earn modular credits toward their major in
a new academic setting
3 Immerse themselves in a new place and
culture
4 Enjoy tuition-fee waiver from the partner
institution, and pay NUS tuition fees for the
exchange semester(s)
What is your reason for going on SEP?
TOP REASONS FOR GOING ON SEP
(as reported by students)
1 To experience a different culture
2 Personal development
3 Travel opportunities
AFTER THEIR SEP EXPERIENCE…
~100% Felt more capable of taking care of
themselves
~99% I'm more sensitive to the needs of others
from different cultures/backgroundss
SATISFACTION SURVEY
AY2016/17
99%
were either extremely satisfied or
satisfied with their exchange
98%
would recommend SEP to other
students
PRE-DEPARTURE VIDEO https://share.nus.edu.sg/goabroad/Video/Pre-Departure_Video.wmv
Preparing for SEP
ROAD MAP
While waiting for
• Set personal goals • Follow instructions in
your acceptance acceptance package
• Find out about host package (read carefully & meet
destinations deadlines)
• Plan itinerary • Read pre- • Apply for visa
• Work out budget departure guide • Book accommodation
• Attend country • Make travel
arrangements
After applying with briefing
your host university Upon receiving your
acceptance packagePreparing for SEP
STUDY PLAN
• Complete the module mapping process via the NUS Student Information System (select
Self Service – External Study).
• Include some spare modules in your study list in case you are unable to secure your
preferred modules or when your enrolled module(s) has been cancelled.
• Should there be any changes to your study plan, seek approval from your home faculty
immediately.Preparing for SEP
PASSPORT & FLIGHT
• Ensure that passport is valid for 6 months after
return date.
• Do NOT confirm flight booking until you have
received the acceptance from the host university
and gotten your visa.
• Arrive at least 2 weeks before study period and
attend orientation programme.Preparing for SEP
VISA
• Normally a student / long term visa is needed for a stay of more than 3 months. Various
nationalities may have different visa requirements.
• Take note of visa requirements in neighbouring countries as some may require visas
even for transit purposes.
• You may be required to submit original documents for visa applications, remember to
keep a copy of the submitted documents.
• Your passport may be kept at the Embassy during the decision period.Preparing for SEP
VISA
• Generally the following is necessary for visa application:
* Completed application form (online/paper)
* Passport with required validity
* Passport-sized photos with specific requirement
* Acceptance Letter from host university
* Financial Proof (please note the specific required amount/ period of deposit/ format)
* Health Insurance
* Flight Ticket
• You should follow the instruction from Embassy for the required documents strictly.
• It is important that you proactively keep yourself updated and be aware of the latest
visa requirement as well as your visa application status at all time as the policy may be
updated anytime without notice. You may keep checking the embassy website regularly.Preparing for SEP
VISA - ITALY
Long Stay Visa
(http://www.ambsingapore.esteri.it/ambasciata_singapore/en/informazioni_e_servizi/visti)
1. Check whether you need a visa via http://vistoperitalia.esteri.it/home/en#BMQuestionario
2. Prepare the necessary documents (refer to the visa result from #1 above)
3. Schedule an appointment to submit the visa application via
http://www.vfsglobal.com/italy/singapore/schudle-an-appointment.html
4. Collect the passport and visa once decision is made.
• Visa Fee: around €50
• Visa Processing Time: around 1 month (varies according to visa type, nationality and queue)
Note: The above information is valid as at April 2018. You should keep yourself updated on the latest requirement via Embassy’s website.Preparing for SEP
VISA – SPAIN
Long Term Student Visa
(http://www.exteriores.gob.es/Embajadas/SINGAPUR/en/Embajada/ServiciosConsulares/Pages/Visas.aspx)
1. Prepare the necessary documents
2. Schedule an appointment and submit the visa application
(https://app.bookitit.com/en/widgets/dtlbook/2513b7e09979f08578115a5a8d467e0f4/1/)
3. Collect the passport and visa upon decision made
• Visa Fee: around SGD90.60
• Visa Processing Time: 2-3 weeks
Note: The above information is valid as at April 2018. You should keep yourself updated on the latest requirement via Embassy’s website.Preparing for SEP
VISA - SWITZERLAND
National D Visa (except for Singaporeans and Malaysians who do not need to apply for a visa)
(https://www.eda.admin.ch/countries/singapore/en/home/visa/entry-ch.html)
1. Check if you need a National Visa
(https://www.eda.admin.ch/countries/singapore/en/home/visa/entry-ch/more-90-days/do-i-need-a-national-visa.html)
2. Prepare the required documents for application
3. (https://www.eda.admin.ch/countries/singapore/en/home/visa/entry-ch/more-90-days/documents-national.html)
4. Schedule an appointment to submit the visa application
(https://www.swiss-visa.ch/register/i210_select_country_view.action)
5. Collect the passport and visa upon decision made
• Visa Fee: SGD93
• Visa Processing Time: 2-3 months (varies according to visa type, nationality and queue)
Note: The above information is valid as at April 2018. You should keep yourself updated on the latest requirement via Embassy’s website.Preparing for SEP
HEALTH & INSURANCE
• Health insurance and/or even specific coverage items may be required for visa
application in some countries.
• Students should have a comprehensive travel and health insurance coverage for the full
duration of your stay abroad, including travelling.
• Read through the coverage from the NUS Students Travel Insurance
http://www.nus.edu.sg/finance/InsuranceCoverforOfficialNUSTrips.html and you may
consider taking out additional coverage from your preferred agent where necessary.
• Bring a copy with you when you are travelling and keep a copy with your family/buddy.
Familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions and basic claim procedures before
departure. Do note the emergency numbers at all time.Preparing for SEP
HEALTH & INSURANCE
• Report accident/loss at the earliest possible opportunity.
• If you are taking any medication, please continue and bring along an adequate supply
together with the medical certificate or relevant prescription documents.
Italy / Spain
• Insurance policy necessary for visa application
• Check the respective Embassy website and host university’s website for insurance
requirementPreparing for SEP ACCOMMODATION
Preparing for SEP
ACCOMMODATION
• Different kinds of housing – On-campus housing, private apartments, student hostel, homestay, etc.
•
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Charges, payment methods, and check-in procedures varies.
UAM
• Join student groups/forums for info exchange for self-arranged housing.
Photo of
Photo by
Sciences Po
• ETH Zurich
Check location, transportation to campus as well as convenient stores/supermarket/other facilities.
• Avoid unreasonably cheap offerings as they may be scams, read comments online. Familiarize yourself with
the terms and conditions when signing contracts.
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UNIL
• Upon check-in, please make sure you have checked the furniture and utility to ensure they’re in good order.
It is good to arrive early to check on the room condition, surrounding environment, and safety
considerations. When you check out, you are expected to return the room and content in good order.
• Settle all payment / refund as far as you could before leaving the host country.
• Clean the room before leaving as some residences are strict on cleanliness and may charge you cleaning
Photo of
Sciences Po
fee after checking out. Photo of Photo of Photo by
Chalmers UAM ETH ZurichPreparing for SEP
COST OF LIVING
Breakdown of Costs Italy Spain Switzerland Other Costs
Accommodation € 500 € 500 CHF 700
Flight Ticket
Food € 200 € 200 CHF 550
Insurance
Transport € 40 € 65 CHF 70
Others (Daily expenses, Visa
€ 140 € 150 CHF 350
Entertainment, etc) Additional
Monthly Estimate € 880 € 915 CHF 1,670 Travelling
In SGD $ 1,400 $ 1457 $ 2,273 Etc….
Note: The above estimates are for reference only. The actual costs of living will depend on personal lifestyles and preferences, as well as the leisure travelling.Preparing for SEP
COST OF LIVING
• You should work out a budget covering flight ticket, insurance, visa cost,
accommodation, food, transport, clothing & entertainment, and also additional
travelling
• Cost of living can vary greatly across cities in the same country and your personal
lifestyle.
• You can save money by shopping at local supermarkets, buying tickets in advance,
applying and taking budget airlines.
• It is recommendable to have at least one month cash with you upon arrival or you should
make sure you can withdraw money conveniently and feasibly overseas.
• Take note of your weekly expenses (or even daily) so you have better idea on your
budget for the remaining period of stay.Preparing for SEP
CHECKLIST OF THINGS TO BRING – DOCUMENTS
□ Valid passport and visa □ Medical records (including vaccinations)
□ Proof of acceptance by PU □ Insurance
□ Study plan □ Forms of identification (ISIC youth card, driving
license, etc.)
□ NUS transcripts (to facilitate module registration)
□ Bank draft/ credit card/ cash
□ Proof of financial support
□ Confirmed flight ticket
□ Letter confirming accommodation
□ List of emergency contacts
□ Receipts of payments made (housing, admin fees,
etc.)
Please remember to make a copy of all important documents. Keep separate sets in different places. You might
also like to leave a set at home, so that these documents can be easily sent to you in the event that you lose
those with you.Preparing for SEP CHECKLIST OF THINGS TO BRING – NECESSITIES □ Appropriate clothing □ Toiletries □ First-aid kit □ Hairdryer □ Medication □ Digital camera □ Adaptors and chargers □ Photos and souvenirs of home/ Singapore □ Umbrella/ raincoat □ Foodstuff □ Appropriate footwear □ Passport photos
Preparing for SEP
PACK IT RIGHT FOR YOUR FLIGHT
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LlbnnWyDalQ&feature=youtu.bePreparing for SEP DON’T FORGET TO E-REGISTER WITH MFA! • Singaporeans/PRs should register themselves with Singapore MFA at https://eregister.mfa.gov.sg/eregisterportal/common/pr eLoginEregisterView.action. • NS men must notify MINDEF of their trip and apply for the Exit Permit if required at www.ns.sg. • International students should contact their country’s diplomatic missions.
Preparing for SEP
ADVICE FROM MFA - Be Informed & Be Safe
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance and be familiar with the terms and coverage.
• Take a few minutes to eRegister with MFA (online or via the MFA@SG mobile app).
• Always take care of your personal safety, and remain vigilant and alert to local security developments.
• Obey the laws and respect the local customs of the countries you are visiting.
• Keep your passport and identity card separate to minimise the risk of you losing both your ID documents.
• Never carry too much cash and valuables. Never leave your valuables unattended.
• Make sure you know the local rules of the road. Ensure that you, your passengers and the vehicle are covered by insurance.
• Exercise caution around large gatherings and avoid locations known for demonstrations or disturbances.
• Monitor the local news and heed the instructions of the local authorities in an emergency.
• Stay in touch with your family and friends in Singapore so that they know you are safe. Inform them of your whereabouts and activities.
• In the event that you require consular assistance, please call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office (24-hours) at +65-6379 8800/8855, or
get in touch with the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission.What to Expect at Your Destination FIND OUT MORE ABOUT… • Climate and time difference • Exchange rate and cost of living • Regional map and local transportation • Cultural similarities and differences • Health and safety • Meet and greet services • Living and studying at host university • Expectation and academic assessment at host university • Activities for exchange students at host university
What to Expect at Your Destination
WEATHER (AUTUMN/WINTER)
• Air will be dry – put on lots of moisturiser.
• Have a good coat with you; the weather can change
rapidly and it can be expensive to buy winter wear at
your host country.
• You may experience gloominess because you are not
used to the short days and cold weather.
• Try autumn/winter activities that you would not be able
to do in Singapore, such as skiing.
• Even when the weather is cold, the locals may still eat
cold food as a proper meal.
• It is likely to have heating indoor, be aware of such so you
can dress appropriately for best comfort.What to Expect at Your Destination LIFESTYLE • Pace of life is slower with shorter working hours and a weekend spent with a long brunch or just chilling out is not unusual • Locals are generally helpful but might not take the initiative to make small talk so be thick-skinned, smile and start a conversation • Walking and cycling culture is stronger in Europe • Partner universities usually have student clubs, organize excursion activities, have sports activities from the beginner’s to advanced level -don’t miss the opportunity to exercise and make friends
What to Expect at Your Destination
UNIVERSITY CAMPUS
Photo of
UAM
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Photo by
Sciences Po
ETH Zurich
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CentraleSupelec
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UNIL
Photo of Photo of Photo of Photo by
Sciences Po Chalmers UAM ETH ZurichWhat to Expect at Your Destination
UNIVERSITY CAMPUS
• Multiple campuses of most universities and each campus may offer different courses.
Photo of
• Check the campus location of each course as it may UAM
be different.
• Experience different kind of campus environment – Scattered City Campus, Modern
Photo of
Buildings,
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Historical Buildings, etc.
ETH Zurich
Sciences Po
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UNIL
Photo of Photo of Photo of Photo by
Sciences Po Chalmers UAM ETH ZurichWhat to Expect at Your Destination
ACADEMIC CULTURE
• Smaller class size for seminar style classes and more interactive amongst students as well as professors
• Courses may not be confirmed until you arrive or register at PU
• For some PUs, classes may be conducted in French even if initially indicated as ‘taught in English’
• Professors are approachable and friendly; less formal student-teacher relationship
• Less competitive learning environment yet vigourous
• May expect higher degree of independence in learning
• Students are expected to share their views in class or engage in open discussion of topic
• Strict on plagiarism; if you use the exact words or even paraphrasing, of the reference source, you must
use quotation marks and credit the source
• Exam schedule may not be available till later during semester - alternative assessments may not be
availableWhich country has
the greatest number of
UNESCO
World Heritage Sites ?
China Spain
Italy GreeceWhat to Expect at Your Destination
About ITALY
Upcoming U-wide destination: Bologna
Our Fac-level destinations: Milan, Trento
• Famous Italian Culture: art, music, fashion, and iconic
food
• Gelato Paradise!
• Italy is home to the greatest number of UNESCO World
Heritage Sites (53 to date)
• Italians are helpful, courteous, considerate and friendly –
much more so once they know you
• Italians stand much closer to you in conversations
• Catholicism is very Italian – the Pope is on the news in
Italy almost dailyWhich of the following
languages is
the most spoken
first language?
French Italian
Spanish SwedishWhat to Expect at Your Destination
About SPAIN
U-wide destination: Madrid
Fac-level destinations: Madrid, Navarra
• Spanish is the second most spoken language in the world
• A lot to offer from wonderful climate to arts and craft,
architecture, sports, fashion, dance…
• Spanish are often described as extrovert, sociable,
friendly; Can be quite familiar quite fast
• Spain has a variety of foods and unique dishes such as
paella (a type of rice dish) and tapas (a range of small
snacks or appetizers).Which of the following countries sells the most expensive Big Mac? Norway Sweden Switzerland France
What to Expect at Your Destination
About SWITZERLAND
U-wide destinations: Geneva, Lausanne, Zurich
Fac-level destinations: Geneva, Lausanne, St Gallen
• One of the most expensive countries in the world. Most
expensive Big Mac around the world (followed by
Norway, Sweden, etc)
• Multilingual and multicultural:
German, French, Italian, Romansh
• One of the two countries with a square flag (the other is
Vatican)
• 2nd longest life expectancy (WHO) – guess who’s the 1st
and 3rd?
• 208 mountains over 3,000m high! Beautiful landscape!What to Expect at Your Destination
USEFUL RESOURCES
• Partner university specific information:
http://www.nus.edu.sg/iro/prog/sep/partner-universities.html
• Partner University application instructions and university information:
https://share.nus.edu.sg/ng/Partner%20Univerisity%20SEP%20application%20material%20for%20s/Forms/
AllItems.aspx
• Read seniors’ reports of host university:
https://share.nus.edu.sg/ng/SEP%20Report/Forms/AllItems.aspx
• On being prepared while overseas:
https://www.mfa.gov.sg/content/dam/mfa/images/Consular%20Information/for_singapore_citizens/advice
_for_singaporeans_going_overseas/Travel%20Notice%20Booklet/2012/MFA%20Booklet%20English.pdfSettling In ARRIVAL • Contact your family/friends upon arrival • Orientation • Registration • Courses Add/Drop and Timetabling • Accommodation Check in and familiarize yourself in the neighbourhood • Student Visa / Residence Permit • Accounts set up • Going to first classes! Read the acceptance and arrival packages from the host university!
Settling In
EXPECTED CONDUCT
• Respect others and behave respectably too.
• You are representing yourself, your school and your country.
• Obey laws and regulations of host country, host university, Singapore and NUS.
• Read rules and regulations at host university and ensure that you do not violate them. (e.g. rules on
plagiarism and cheating)
• Do not be pressured into anything. Just because everyone is doing it, doesn’t make it right. Be comfortable
being your own person.
Anti-drugs campaign by Singapore’s Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB)
Hotline for Central Narcotics Bureau: 1800-325-6666 | Website: www.cnb.gov.sgSettling In
SAFETY
• Safety should be the priority in all that you do.
• Assess the risk of what you are about to do and
try to minimise and even avoid unnecessary risk.
• If confronted, give up your valuables and do not
resist as your safety is the most important.
• Ask locals about any dangerous areas or
locations that should be avoided.
• Stay ‘Visible’ and Be Connected to your family
and friends all the time.Settling In SAFETY Source: https://www.sgsecure.sg/resources/Documents/Run%20H ide%20Tell%20English%2026%20January%202017.pdf
Which are the three recommended actions
in the event of
firearms and weapons attacks ?
1) Scream Shout Cry
2) Eat Love Play
3) Chill Video Upload
4) Run Hide TellSettling In WHAT IS CULTURE SHOCK? Cultural Shock is defined generally as the phenomenon of feeling disoriented when one moves away from home to an unfamiliar environment with different values, habits, customs, beliefs, and living.
Settling In
HOW MAY IT COME UP?
• It could be every small thing and happening in your daily routine and life. Not necessarily any big events.
• You may not be aware of it at first.
Icons by FlaticonSettling In
HOW MAY YOU RECOGNISE IT?
• Things just don’t feel right. I just don’t feel alright!
• Feeling disoriented, confused, anxious, or even frustrated.
• Feeling not in a right place and uncertain what is going on and how to move forward.
Icons by FlaticonSettling In
HOW TO DEAL WITH IT?
• Self-awareness
Try to sit back, think of things that you are not certain and uncomfortable with – how and why, since when?
• Recognise, Acknowledge and Accept Feelings and Emotions
It is not necessary to ignore and dislike any positive or negative feelings you have. What matters is how you
recognize and accept them constructively.
• Stay Connected, Open Mind and Discussion
Try to understand what has been going on and share with your friends. Maybe they have similar encounters
as you do and have other perspectives to share with you. You may also hear from others about their
experience which may later happens to you so you have a better idea what it is about and how to face it
when it comes!Settling In
HOW TO DEAL WITH IT?
• Flexibility and Patience
Give it time. Time will show you more, not only about the incidents and feelings, but also about yourself and
your resilience.
• Common Sense
You can gather more resources for yourself to make sense of each incident by talking to others, sharing ideas
and feelings, understanding possible reasons behind (e.g. cultural background, personality, history of events,
etc).
• Positivity and Knowing that Option is In Your Hands
You always have options in your hands. Problems can be solved or can be disregarded as problems with a
change of perspective. This is where you grow personally, know more about yourself, your resilience, your
preference and your mature action to various circumstances!Settling In
MITIGATING CULTURE SHOCK
• Recognise feelings of surprise,
disorientation, confusion, etc. is
normal and okay
1. Honeymoon phase
2. Negotiation phase
3. Adaption phase
• Talk to friends or a counselor
• Keep in regular contact with
friends and family back home
• Join university and community
activitiesName 2 actions that help to deal with culture shock ?
Settling In
USEFUL CONTACTS
• Make your own list of emergency contacts
1. Embassies/ High Commissions: www.mfa.gov.sg
2. Local emergencies numbers
3. Credit card and bank telephone numbers
4. Insurance hotlines
5. NUS Emergency contact: +65 6874 1616 (24 hours)Settling In
USEFUL CONTACTS – EMERGENCY CONTACTS
Permanent Mission of the Republic of Singapore in Geneva
Avenue du Pailly 10, 1219 Châtelaine, Geneva, Switzerland
41-(0)22-795 0101
mfa_geneva@mfa.gov.sg
https://www.mfa.gov.sg/content/mfa/overseasmission/geneva.html
Honorary Consul-General of the Republic of Singapore in Rome
Via Frattina, 89, 00187 Rome
39-06-69940398 or 39-06-69783010
hcgoffice.rome@yahoo.com
http://www.mfa.gov.sg/rome
Mission Locator: https://www.mfa.gov.sg/content/mfa/missions/singapore_mission/mission_locator.htmlSettling In
USEFUL CONTACTS – EMERGENCY CONTACTS
Consulate-General of the Republic of Singapore in Barcelona
Buenos Aires, 42, 1º 1 a, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
(34) 93 363 42 37
sgbcnconsul@gmail.com
https://www.mfa.gov.sg/content/mfa/overseasmission/barcelona.html
Consulate-General of the Republic of Singapore in Madrid
Avenida De Bruselas 28, 28108 Alcobendas , Madrid
(34) 91 662 93 73
hcgmadrid@fmetropoli.org
https://www.mfa.gov.sg/content/mfa/overseasmission/madrid.html
Mission Locator: https://www.mfa.gov.sg/content/mfa/missions/singapore_mission/mission_locator.htmlSettling In
MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SEMESTER
• Don’t just stick to Singaporeans! Make an effort to meet different people and be open-minded about
differences.
• Even while having fun, make sure you are aware of any important academic dates and not miss any
deadlines!
• Take note of your exam dates. If your semester overseas overlaps with the new NUS semester, start
making arrangements for early exam or alternative assessments. If neither is possible, apply for an
extension of your leave of absence from NUS.
• Activate the email account given by your host university to receive important notices and announcements.
• Check both host university and NUS email frequently.
• Always stay in touch with your family and friends back home. Be Visible!
• If a problem arises, try to resolve it. However, if you are unable to, ask for help.Settling In
MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SEMESTER
Fun and Travel Experience
Friendships
Network for future
Global perspectives
Analytic and Problem-solving Skills
Becoming Resourceful, Flexible, Sensible
Understanding yourself and others
Personal Growth – be inspired on your future planning
Icons by FlaticonHomecoming
BEFORE LEAVING YOUR HOST UNIVERSITY
• Say your goodbyes and ‘thank
you’s
• Complete ex-matriculation
process at host university
• Make sure your room is in a
presentable state before
leaving
• Follow NUS’ deadlines for
CORS module bidding and
application for on-campus
housing
• Prepare and submit your SEP
reportHomecoming
THINGS TO DO WHEN YOU RETURN
1. Submit your SEP report
2. Complete the SEP Evaluation Survey
3. Join the Welcome Back Session (to accumulate point for the Outstanding NUS Exchangers Award)
4. Join the Peer Advising Programme
➢ Advising Programme seeks to build a community of Peer Advisors (PAs) consisting of students who
have been on SEP and are keen to contribute.
➢ Link up with our Peer Advising Leaders (PALs) to find out more:
peeradvising@nus.edu.sg http://tinyurl.com/peeradvisingNUS
http://www.nus.edu.sg/iro/sep/pals/pals.html @NUSPeerAdvisors
5. Help out at SEP outreach activities and help your juniors prepare for their SEP journey aheadTAKE PART IN THE
Outstanding NUS Exchanger Award
• To qualify, you must complete
at least 1 SEP semester abroad
and attend at least 1
compulsory activities
• Proof of participation is
required for receiving stamps
• 8 Points = Gold Award
6-7 Points = Silver Award
4-5 Points = Bronze Award
• Submit this log card to GRO by
30 May (Sem 1 SEP) or by 30
Dec (Sem 2 SEP)Be a SEP Ambassador for Singapore and NUS! SESSION ONE SESSION TWO Date : 15th May 2018 Date : 5th July 2018 Time : 14:30 – 16:00 Time : 14:30 – 16:00 Venue : Global Lounge Venue : Global Lounge
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