5 May 2024

My student exchange experience: Tea Pernar

Tea Pernar is a 4th-year student of economics and management at ZŠEM. This semester, he is doing his 3rd consecutive exchange in Singapore. Read her experience below!

Life on campus

Tea found that studying in Singapore was a special experience, especially since it was her first time living on campus. The NTU campus is huge, with more than 20 dormitory buildings, a dozen schools, sports centers, swimming pools, and even several bus lines connecting it. What impressed her was that many students from Singapore also live on campus, even though they are local, due to its distance from the city center.

“Campus life completely changes the dynamics of the student experience,” Tea points out. “Everything you need is on campus – canteens, gyms, study and social spaces. This makes me feel like I have everything I need for everyday life here.”

Intensive academic program

Academic experiences at NTU require dedication and commitment. Tea notes that students are expected to study almost daily to keep up with the demanding curriculum. But what particularly surprised Teo was the competitive spirit of local students due to the grading system that follows the bell curve – where the success of one student is judged against the success of others.

“Students here often stay in libraries late into the night to prepare for lectures,” Tea said. “This system encourages competition, but also motivates a serious approach to studying.”

Life in Singapore

Singapore, a city known for its modern architecture and green spaces, provided Tei with unforgettable experiences. The biggest impression on her was the combination of modern skyscrapers and the natural environment, but also the strict rules and punishments that ensure the cleanliness and safety of the city.

“Singapore is a city with a lot of rules, but that’s exactly why it’s so safe,” explains Tea. “I’ve never been in a city where I feel this safe – people leave their bags on tables in cafes, and everyone knows that nothing will go missing.”

Tea had the opportunity to experience the Chinese New Year in Singapore, a celebration that lasted for two weeks. She spent that night in Chinatown, enjoying the festival that never sleeps. “Colorful parades, food stalls, and decorations everywhere – it was a night to remember!”

New friends and a wider view of the world

Although she is the only student from Croatia at NTU, Tea quickly fit in and found company among students from different parts of the world. Meeting new people, both local students and other exchange participants, enriched her experience in Singapore.

“The exchange is a perfect opportunity to meet people from different cultures,” says Tea. “Even though I sometimes miss my family and friends, the wealth of experiences I experience here doesn’t leave much room for nostalgia.”

A message for all exchange students

Tea encourages all students who are thinking about going on exchange to take the plunge and step out of their comfort zone. Although the exchanges are challenging, he finds them an invaluable experience that broadens perspectives and shapes personal and academic growth.

“When I remember my doubts about leaving, I’m glad I decided on this adventure. This will surely be one of the most beautiful experiences of my student days.”

Tea is an inspiration to everyone who hesitates to embark on a journey through exchange – sometimes the most challenging steps are the ones that lead us to the greatest successes!