Student Testimonial: Justin (Singapore)

Justin's Bio: Justin is from UTM and his program of study is political science specialist. Justin will be entering his fourth year this September.

Justin describes the Singapore Summer Abroad program as one of the most rewarding experiences of his undergraduate studies. The program not only enhanced his academic knowledge but also transformed his perspective on political science and the world. He gained a deeper understanding of China's political and economic landscape, with topics like industrial policy and diaspora politics becoming more tangible through discussions in Singapore.

Read Justin’s testimonial to see how he grew both academically and personally, and what advice he would give to students who wants to take the Singapore Summer Abroad program.

Participating in the Singapore Summer Abroad program (JPA331Y0: Rise of China as a Global Power) was one of the most rewarding experiences of my undergraduate studies. The course not only deepened my academic knowledge but also changed how I think about political science and the world.

The program gave me a stronger understanding of the political and economic landscape in China. Topics such as industrial policy and diaspora politics, which we studied through readings and guest lectures, became far more concrete when discussed in Singapore. Being in Southeast Asia allowed me to see how these issues are not only central to China’s domestic agenda but also closely watched and debated by its neighbors. This context made abstract theories feel real and immediate.

I also grew academically and personally. Academically, I learned to connect theory with observation. Personally, I became more confident engaging with professors and peers. A memorable moment was when Professor Ong already remembered my name by the second day of class. Later, after our visit to the Canadian High Commission, she walked with us to the Merlion while chatting casually like a friend—something unimaginable in a large U of T classroom—and then treated us to satay. That day created a sense of warmth and community that I will never forget.

My favorite memory was exactly that evening, but other highlights also stand out. Watching the National Day Parade rehearsal and fireworks was powerful. It helped me see how pride, identity, and legitimacy are woven together in Singapore’s national celebrations. Exploring Chinatown or visiting Parliament House and the National Museum showed me how Singapore balances tradition and modernity.

Before arriving, I expected Singapore to be modern and efficient, but the reality was far richer. I was surprised by its diversity and contrasts: one moment enjoying bak kut teh or laksa at a hawker centre, the next standing under the futuristic skyline of Marina Bay. It taught me that political science is not only studied in books—it is lived in daily experiences, public spaces, and conversations with locals.

If I could give advice to future students, I would say: be ready for the fast pace of classes and field trips, and stay open to new perspectives that may differ from Canadian ones. Most importantly, take time to enjoy the small experiences, because they make the program unforgettable.

In the end, this program enhanced my understanding of China’s rise while also showing me Southeast Asia’s role in global politics. More than that, it reminded me that political science is alive in the streets, institutions, and communities around us.