Switzerland and the UK - Pre-Departure Briefing for International Summer Programmes - NUS
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i-SP
International Summer
Programmes
Pre-Departure Briefing for
Switzerland and the UK
Friday, 10th May 2019
GLOBAL RELATIONS OFFICE
SEP i-SP
Student Exchange
International Summer
Programmes
STEER
Programme
Study Trips for
Engagement & EnRichment
i-RAP SSUE TFI LEaRN Y- V I S P
International Research Sino-Singapore Temasek Foundation International Yale Visiting International
Attachment Programmes Undergraduate Exchange Leadership Enrichment and Regional Scholars Programme
Programme Networking Programme @ NUS
Agenda 1. Highlights of iSP 2. Preparing for iSP 3. What to expect at your destination 4. Settling in 5. Homecoming 6. Networking
What is iSP?
iSP is an opportunity for students to:
1
Spend minimum of 2 weeks during NUS’s
summer break at a partner university
2
Earn up to 12 modular credits (free) from
two iSPs during your undergraduate
studies at NUS*
Immerse yourself in a new place and
3
culture
4
Settle payment and payment issues on
tuition fees with host institution directly
Preparing for iSP Start with the end in mind -Stephen Convey
Preparing for iSP
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 package
Preparing for iSP Overlapping calendar For summer programmes that eat into NUS’s academic calendar… Have you sought the approval from your home Faculty at NUS for a late return?
Preparing for iSP STUDY PLAN • Complete the module mapping process via the NUS EduRec System. • Include some spare modules in your study list in case you are unable to secure your preferred modules or if your enrolled module(s) are cancelled. • Should there be any changes to your study plan, seek approval from your home Faculty immediately.
Preparing for iSP
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 by the date mentioned in your offer letter
and attend the orientation programme prepared
for you by the host university.
Preparing for iSP
HEALTH & INSURANCE
• Read through the coverage from the NUS Students Travel Insurance.
• Have a comprehensive travel and health insurance coverage for the full duration of your
summer, including travelling. You may need to purchase additional health and/or travel
insurance from your preferred agent.
• Bring along the emergency hotline numbers and a copy of your insurance policy. Medical
emergency +65 6836 2922.
• Contact the insurance provider for the extended period of coverage. Click here for contact
• Report accident/loss at the earliest possible opportunity. Take photographs and note
down the serial numbers of electronic equipment and obtain receipts/reports for
insurance claims
• If you are taking any medication, please continue and bring along an adequate supply.Preparing for iSP Finance Matters •Do your sums and make sure you have enough money •Activate your debit/credit card for overseas use •Have a debit/credit card with you in case of emergencies (ensure that your card has a PLUS or CIRRUS) •Apply for NASA Enhancement Bursary •Apply for Overseas Student Programme (OSP) Loan •For PSEA – reimbursement basis
Preparing for iSP COST OF LIVING – SENIORS’ TIPS • Cook! • Enjoy student discounts (with your student card) • The nearest grocery store might not be the cheapest • Plan your trips in advance to save cost • Source for alternative means of traveling (e.g. bus rides instead of flights, etc.) • Use apps that will give you discounts
Preparing for iSP
CHECKLIST OF THINGS TO BRING – DOCUMENTS
□ Valid passport and visa □ Medical records (including vaccinations)
□ Proof of acceptance by PU □ Insurance with necessary coverage
□ Approved Study Plan □ Forms of identification (ISIC youth card, driving
license, etc.)
□ NUS transcripts (to facilitate module registration)
□ Bank draft/ credit card/ cash (1 month)
□ 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 iSP
CHECKLIST OF THINGS TO BRING – NECESSITIES
□ Windproof and water-resistant jacket with a hood □ Toiletries
□ Medication & First-aid kit □ Hairdryer
□ Multi-plug, Multi-USB port (and adapter) □ Digital camera
□ Umbrella/ raincoat □ Photos and souvenirs of home/ Singapore
□ Water resistant, non-slip shoes □ Foodstuff (pre-mix sealed in vacuum pack)
□ Passport photosPreparing for iSP
PACK IT RIGHT FOR YOUR FLIGHT
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LlbnnWyDalQ&feature=youtu.bePreparing for iSP DON’T FORGET TO REGISTER WITH MFA! • Singaporeans/PRs should register themselves with Singapore MFA at https://eregister.mfa.gov.sg/eregisterportal/common/pr eLoginEregisterView.action. • NSmen – Notify MINDEF about your trip via “Manage Overseas Trips” at www.ns.sg if your trip exceeds 14 days. • International students should contact their country’s diplomatic missions.
What to Expect at Your Destination ACADEMIC CULTURE • Emphasis on independence • Professors expect that you are taking the class because you are interested in learning and will not monitor/chase after you if you are not attending class or handing in assignment • In class, students do not speak up because they have to but because they want to – the passion for learning is infectious • Professors generally welcome summer school students and try to accommodate requests but do not abuse this goodwill with unreasonable demands and show respect if the final decision is a no • If possible, try to obtain your transcripts before you leave so you return with a copy. Otherwise, provide a valid mailing address for the host to send you your transcript directly
What to Expect at Your Destination
ACADEMIC CULTURE – SENIORS’ TIPS
Don’t assume that classes will be easier
• It’s still possible to fail classes while on summer
• You might have an oral exam instead of a written one
Secure modules and keep track of school work
• Check if you might need to email the lecturer or just turn up in class to secure the module, in addition to/in
lieu of registering online
• Check both host university and NUS emails for updates
• Map extra modules
Bi-directional conversation in class
• Lecturers expect a 2-way conversation, and students are not afraid to speak up during classes
• You are expected to learn independently, do you own readings and not just rely on lecture notesWhat to Expect at Your Destination ACCOMMODATION • Usually offered as part of the summer programme package by the host university • Various accommodation options (e.g. home stay, campus accommodation, etc.) offered by different host university • Students are encouraged to take the offer from the host university if on-campus accommodation is offered. (i.e. safety, aligned with fire safety regulations, insurance coverage, compliance with local tax and legal obligations etc.) • Students who wish to explore private accommodation are to take note of the fine prints on the lease document. Always view the accommodation before you commit
What to Expect at Your Destination ACCOMMODATION – SENIORS’ TIPS Apply as soon as you receive email on school accommodation Accommodation (especially for city campuses) are in short supply and run out quickly before the accommodation application deadline. Keep your room neat • Not every hostel has a housekeeping service • Some hostels conduct spot checks • You might forfeit your deposit if you leave your room in a mess when you leave Read the terms and conditions Before you commit to any accommodation (private or university), please read and clarify your doubts about the terms and conditions before you sign on the rental agreement.
What to Expect at Your Destination 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.
What to Expect at Your Destination
SAFETY: “RUN, HIDE, TELL”
In the event of an attack, adopt the following:
1 RUN (if escape is possible)
1. Consider the safest route
2. Move quickly and quietly
2 HIDE (if escape is not possible)
1. Find cover from gunfire and stay out of sight
2. Lock yourself in, but do not get trapped
3. Stay out of view of the attackers 3. If you are unable to lock the doors/entrances, place
4. Insist others leave with you objects such as tables or cupboards behind the doors
5. Leave your belongings behind or entrances to prevent access of attackers
4. Move away from doors
5. Be very quiet and switch your phone to silent mode
3 TELL
• Provide details about the attackers (Total number of attackers, Equipment or weapons being carried,
Look of the attackers, Location of attackers (where they are now and moving towards)
• If it is safe to do so, stop others from going towards danger areas
• Follow the police’s instructions and do not make any sudden movements
Adapted from “Advisory in the aftermath of Paris and London attacks”, circulated by the Singapore Police ForceWhat to Expect at Your Destination LIFESTYLE • Punctuality is a norm and if you are late, you are supposed to have a better reason than just “I lost track of time” • Environmental consciousness is high so you will learn to separate your garbage, recycle your bottles (sometimes you get money back) and cycle to get around • Locals are generally helpful but might not take the initiative to make small talk so be thick- skinned, smile and start a conversation • Communication is usually direct, honest and to the point • Pace of life is slower, a weekend spent with a long brunch or just chilling out is not unusual • Walking and cycling culture is very strong
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
What to Expect at Your Destination USEFUL RESOURCES • Partner university specific information: http://nus.edu.sg/gro/summer-winter.php • 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%20 Notice%20Booklet/2012/MFA%20Booklet%20English.pdf
Settling In STAY CONNECTED • Purchase local SIM card • Call home when you reach and when you exit or enter a country • Update your new local number into the NUS EduRec System • Continue to check you NUS email account • Be a good ambassador of NUS, Singapore and yourself
Settling In
GETTING TO KNOW YOUR HOST COUNTRY
• Familiarise yourself with the surroundings and find out the location of the nearest clinic/
pharmacy
• Create a travel manifesto outlining three goals and skills that you want to develop while you are
away.
• Become a “regular” (but not at a touristy spot). Have a coffee and read the paper at the same
cafe or have an evening drink at the same bar at the same time every day for a week. Be open to
speaking with other regulars.
• Ask a local person to name what they think is the most beautiful building in the city/town. Ask
them to describe it and explain why they find it so beautiful. Go to that building and experience
its beauty for yourself.
• What are some local games played in your host country? Ask the locals to teach/play these
games with you. If you do not know the rules, ask for clarification.
Adapted from University of Edinburgh’s Third SpaceSettling 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
activitiesSettling 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! • Activate the email account given by your host university to receive important notices and announcements. • If a problem arises, try to resolve it. However, if you are unable to, ask for help.
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
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 Singapore Embassy in Switzerland Singapore Embassy in UK http://www.mfa.gov.sg/geneva https://www.mfa.gov.sg/London
Homecoming
BEFORE LEAVING YOUR HOST UNIVERSITY
• Check procedures for
moving out ahead of time
to ensure that you are not
inconvenienced/lose
deposit upon departure
• Follow NUS’s deadlines for
CORS module bidding and
application for on-campus
housing
• Prepare and submit your
iSP report and do the iSP
surveyHomecoming
THINGS TO WHEN YOU RETURN
1. Submit your iSP report
2. Complete the iSP Evaluation Survey
3. Join the Peer Advising Programme
Advising Programme seeks to build a community of Peer Advisors (PAs) consisting of students who
have been on iSP 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/gro/student-exchange.php @NUSPeerAdvisors
5. Help out at SEP outreach activities and help your juniors prepare for their iSP journey aheadSEP CARBON FOOTPRINT • Did you know a return flight Singapore to London equates to 1.74 tonnes of CO2e per Economy class traveler?* • NUS is committed to being a global university, but is also aware of and cares about the environment • Suggested ways to reduce your carbon footprint: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that recycling glass, aluminum, plastic, and paper could save 582 pounds of CO2 per year, equivalent to more than 600 miles of driving.** Buy less meat. By one estimate, consuming a pound of beef gives off more carbon than burning a gallon of gasoline.** Bring your own bags and buy in bulk when possible to reduce packaging. Reduce your consumption of bottled water and other packaged drinks. For more ideas: https://cotap.org/reduce-carbon-footprint/ * https://calculator.carbonfootprint.com/calculator.aspx?tab=3 **http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/before-the-flood/articles/14-easy-ways-to-reduce-your-own-carbon-footprint/
Cultural intelligence: the competitive edge for leaders | Julia
Middleton | TEDxEastEnd
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izeiRjUMau4W E L C O M E T O Y O U R BIG ADVENTURE!
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