The SMUGuide

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Editor’s NoteDear Freshmen,

We’d like to extend our heartiest welcome to you here at SMU! Whether you are a JC or Poly graduate, or have recently ORD-ed, or even an international student, this guidebook is written specifically to orientate you around the SMU campus – your second home for the next few years.

I recall getting lost on my first day of school, ending up in a Seminar Room when I was supposed to be at a Classroom sheepishly having to exit the room when I realised I was in the wrong class. With this guidebook, we hope you won’t have to go through the same feeling of helplessness your seniors (like me) did as clueless freshmen.

This guide covers everything you need to know, from school facilities and offices, to the clubs and societies available as CCAs, to the places of interest and eating joints around campus for good food. We have a chapter especially devoted to Academics to familiarise you with the core curriculum and the GPA system and have included useful tips on bidding for modules, class participa-tion and other classroom smarts. We are sure you will be well acquainted with SMU and its surrounding areas by the end of this book.

Wishing you a great time in SMU,

Rachel Lee Editors On behalf of the Team

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President’s MessageDear Freshmen,

A very warm welcome to SMU! I hope you have enjoyed your Freshmen Experience so far!

This is the second publication of the SMU guide. We saw the importance of a guide for the freshmen because we were all clueless once. While we were writing the guide, we thought “What did we not know when we were fresh-men?” And there you go! Here is a compilation of our (painfully) accumulated experiences.

Through this guide, we trust you will get to know and to get involved in the myriad of events, activities and CCAs that SMU has to offer. Know the best places to have supper, the must-go events and the know-hows to kickstart your academic pursuit in SMU!

May this guide accompany and help you in your journey as a freshman. We hope you savor it, use it and pass it on in the future!

Love,

Rachel Kok, President, SMUSAOn behalf of the 9th SMUSA ExCo

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Introduction to SMU8 SMU Facilities17 Offices in SMU

Academics23 Academic Smarts 10126 Grades28 Financial Assistance Schemes

Student Life32 Freshmen Experience36 School Events42 Overseas Opportunities48 Get Involved50 Building SMU together

Areas of Interest58 Feed your desires70 Entertainment71 Movies

I.T. Matters74 Wifi-Setup78 IT Tips79 Email Forwarding

ContentsCreditsEditor-in-Chief: Rachel LeeEditors: Rachel Kok Tan Yin Yin, Valmond TengDesigners:Michael Ng Lynette ChuaPhotographer:Kelvin Chng

Special thanks:The rest of the SMUSA exco for their support , Office of Student Life, Centre of Information Technology, ACF, SSU, SMUX, SICS, ASOC, Bondue, OIKOS, SISS, SSS, The Bar, and everyone who have contributed to this guide one way or another.

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IntroductionTo SMU

Introduction to SMU

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IntroductionTo SMU

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IntroductionTo SMU

The Li Ka Shing Library houses an immense collection of data-bases and resources while offering students a place to study and unwind. It is popular amongst students, and is often referred to as our second home.

The library is fully equipped with a range of facilities that students will find very useful; such as printers, Bloomberg terminals, course reserves, print materials, and many e-journals/e-databases available via the library’s SMU PYXIS system. (http://library.smu.edu.sg)

SMUFacilitiesLi Ka Shing Library

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IntroductionTo SMU

Normal Operating Hours:

Mondays – Fridays 8.00 am – 12 midnight

Saturdays 8.30 am – 5.00 pm

Sundays 1.00 pm – 9.00 pm

(Closed on Public Holidays)

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IntroductionTo SMU

Sports Hall – Admin Building Level 3The Sports Hall located in the Ad-ministration Building can accom-modate a variety of sports activities such as basketball, badminton, and floorball. It also incorporates an 11-metre high rock wall for climb-ing enthusiasts. The Sports Hall is available for booking by students via the OASIS portal.

Normal Operating Hours: Mondays – Fridays 8.00 am – 10.00 pmSaturdays 8.00 am – 6.00 pm(Closed on Sundays & Public Holidays)

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IntroductionTo SMU

SMU’s rooftop pool is a little oasis in the middle of the city that gives you a chance to unwind from the hustle and bustle of the SMU pedagogy. Complimentary ame-nities such as saunas, lockers and shower rooms are available for use as well.

Normal Operating Hours: Mondays 11.00 am – 8.00 pmTuesdays – Fridays 7.00 am – 8.00 pm(Closed on Saturdays, Sundays & Public Holidays)

Swimming Pool – Admin Building Level 6

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IntroductionTo SMU

The state-of-the-art SMU Gymnasium and Fitness Centre is home to a full range of gym equipment that includes free weights, treadmills with TVs and an aerobic-dance studio. Hot showers and locker facilities are provided. There are also qualified student fitness instructors on hire to help you with various fitness regimes. You will feel right at home in this exclusive gym that is strictly for students and faculty. Do remember to bring along your matriculation card and a gym towel!

Normal Operating Hours: Mondays – Fridays 7.00 am – 10.00 pmSaturdays 7.00 am – 6.00 pm(Closed on Sundays & Public Holidays)

SMU Gymnasium and Fitness Centre - Concourse

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IntroductionTo SMU

Arts and Cultural Centre - ConcourseThe ACC has acoustic curtains, movable panel mirrors, and comes equipped with AV support and theatre lighting. It is suitable for rehearsals, performanc-es, recitals, film screenings, and even discussions, with a capacity of up to 150 people.

Music and Drama Lab - ConcourseThe MDL is an alternative venue for practices and rehearsals for the various performing arts groups situated right opposite the ACC. It is also fully sound proof.

IntroductionTo SMU

CCA Room - ConcourseThe CCA Room is a euphemism for the maze of offices of the various major student representative bodies within SMU. Chief among these bodies is the SMU Students’ Association, the nominal student union body in SMU. 2 pool tables and a Multi-purpose Hall can also be found in this Minotaur’s lair.

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IntroductionTo SMU

Basement Studio – Basement 1This jamming studio consists of an open area and a jamming studio fully equipped with instruments and AV equipment. Located at the basement car park beneath the School of Business, it also has acoustically treated walls suit-able for jamming rehearsals.

SMUBE Studio – Li Ka Shing LibraryHome of SMU Broadcast and Entertainment, this professional studio has 2 soundproof suites for radio production, and one editing suite.

Ngee Ann Kong Si (NAKS) Auditorium – SOA/LNot to be confused with the Conference Hall located at the Administration Building, the NAKS Auditorium is in the School of Accountancy and has a seating capacity of about 300, making it a perfect venue for mass lectures, presentations, and ceremonies.

T-JunctionThe T-Junction refers to the junction in the concourse between NTUC Medicare and OCBC Bank. It is commonly used for stage performances and rehearsals for various school events.

U-SquareLocated on the street level just above the T-Junction, the U-Square is also used for various school events that require an alternative or open air venue.

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IntroductionTo SMU

Big StepsThe Big Steps is lo-cated at the School of Information Systems, and conveniently acts as theatre-like seating, making it popular among camps and performances such as SMU’s Starry Night event held on every last Friday of the term.

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IntroductionTo SMU

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IntroductionTo SMU

Offices in SMUOffice of Career Service (OCS) – Admin Building Level 7OCS provides career counseling services and processes internship applications. Internship materials are available here. Contact info:Tel: 6828 0333Email: placement@smu.edu.sg

Office of Dean of Students – Admin Building Level 7The Office of Dean of Students seeks to cultivate holistic student development through a variety of programs and services supporting SMU students.

A. Centre of Counseling and Guidance (CCG) CCG provides counseling and emotional support for SMU students and student groups.

B. Centre for Student Financial Assistance (CSFA)CSFA administers financial schemes such as loans, bursaries, grants, scholar-ships, and awards to deserving students. They also oversee the Student Employ-ment Unit. Contact info:Email: deanofstudents@smu.edu.sg

Office of the Registrar (RO) – Admin Building Level 8RO provides services to students with regards to Matriculation and Gradua-tion. Contact info:Email: registrar@smu.edu.sg

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IntroductionTo SMU

Office of International Relations (OIR) – Admin Building Level 8OIR provides both academic and general information relating to international exchange issues. They also provide support for overseas exchange students in Singapore.Contact info:Email: oir@smu.edu.sg

Office of Communications and IT (CIT) – ConcourseCIT provides technical support for all facilities and students regarding IT services and issues. Contact info:Tel: 6828 0123Email: helpdesk@smu.edu.sg

Office of Student Life (OSL) – Con-courseOSL oversees and provides support to all student activities ranging from community service, to CCAs, to student leadership groups like the Students’ Association and SMU Ambassadors. Contact info:Tel: 6828 0318Email: studentlife@smu.edu.sg

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IntroductionTo SMU

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Academics

AcademicsSMU Core Curriculum

Classroom SmartsBidding Smarts

Other Smarts

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Academics

In SMU you will find that the system is structured so that you are equipped with a holistic skill-set before you graduate. We are talking about technical skills, soft skills such as leadership and team-building skills and of course, a sense of social and ethical responsibility.

The following are the University Core modules that every SMU student, regardless of discipline, takes :

1) Analytical Skills & Creative Thinking2) Business, Government & Society3) Communication: Competencies & Strategies4) Ethics & Social Responsibility5) Leadership & Team Building6) Technology & World Change

To deepen your general knowledge and expand your perspectives, you will also be required to choose modules from:1) General Education (compulsory 4 courses, minimum 1 course from both Arts and Science lists)2) Global & Regional Studies (compulsory 2 courses)3) Technology and Entrepreneurship (compulsory 2 courses)4) Career Skills (2 half credit courses)

For more information and full lists of options check out your Student Aca-demic Handbook available here: Oasis > Study > Advisement and Curriculum > Handbook. You may also wish to look up the complete and up to date list of course offerings at Oasis > Study > Courses and Schedules > Course Offerings

The SMU Core Curriculum

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Academics

Tip 1: Make your name knownYou will want your Professor or Teaching Assistant (TA) to notice you in class so do display your name prominently. The Student Association usually hands out free name tents to freshmen early in Term 1 so look out for it.

Tip 2: Be smart about class participationYou would undoubtedly have heard of SMU’s famous module component – Class participation. Course weights assigned to class participation in SMU is generally higher than the other local universities, generally ranging from 15% to up to 30%. Doing well in this component does not mean you have to be the Professors’ soulmate and engage them in heart-to-heart conversation. Do bear in mind:

Quality over quantity. Think of constructive and sound comments before launching into a one (wo)man soliloquy. No one appreciates “Prof, how do you spell possum?”

Respect. As much as you disagree with the comments being aired, do listen respectfully and wait for your chance to politely shoot holes in said arguments. Do try to be constructive. (Operative word: Try)

Tip 3: Dress to killSome professors will not require business attire for your presentations, but taking the effort to look professional goes a long way (unless your professor is strangely averse to well dressed students). We are, after all, a business school.

Tip 4: Gimme an R-E-S-P-E-C-T! Be punctual, mute your phones and lap-tops, talk silently and most importantly, sleep subtly.

Academic Smarts 101Classroom smarts

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Academics

Bidding SmartsTip 1: Do your research A step-by-step guide on how to navigate the jungle that is BOSS can be found here: Oasis > Study > BOSS > BOSS Handbook, but what is more important is pre-bidding preparations. Things you need to take note of when planning your modules:

•Exam timetable – Avoid a packed or a exam timetable that clashes!•Course syllabus – Know what you’re getting into.•BOSS Past Result – Avoid over or under bidding. However note that amount varies according to the popularity of certain Professors and class timings.

Tip 2: The early bird gets the wormPrices tend to go up as each bidding round passes (due to limited spaces) so bid in the earliest round you can. Do take note that you can only bid for modules offered by another faculty in BOSS 1A (if you’ve declared a 2nd major from that faculty).

Tip 3: Bid early for Term 2 Term 2 bidding opens near the exam period of Term 1 so to avoid a lot of ad-ditional stress, plan early.

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Academics

One of the many ways to get second hand textbooks

Other smartsTip 1: Do not attempt to print your 10 page assignments or projects just before the deadlinePrinters in school find the best times to mess-up. Either that or you will some-how contrive to find yourself stuck in an unending queue in a usually quiet (and empty) printing room.

Tip 2: Save book moneyNot all modules have required textbooks, so check before you run off to the bookstore. Do your bit for the environment (and your pocket) too and get books second-hand. Word of mouth usually works, or you could try http://links.smu.edu.sg/smf/index.php. If all else fails, a trip down to Bras Basah Complex might do it.

Tip 3: Your SMU email account will be your new best friendCheck it regularly and clear unimportant stuff away to avoid inbox explosions, which tend to happen pretty often and pretty quickly here in SMU. Alterna-tively there are a couple of ways to get some unlimited inbox space. Check it out here: http://wiki.smusa.sg > How Tos > Configuring your E-mail

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Academics

Grade Point Average (GPA)A measure of your academic performance in SMU. It is a quotient calculated by dividing your total grade points by the total number of course units you have taken. SMU uses a 4-point grading system.

Grade points are determined based on the table below:Grade Grade Point Mark Range*A+ 4.3 86 and aboveA 4.0 83 – 85A- 3.7 80 – 82B+ 3.3 77 – 79B 3.0 74 – 76B- 2.7 70 – 73C+ 2.3 66 – 69C 2.0 63 – 65C- 1.7 60 – 62D+ 1.3 53 – 59D 1.0 50 – 52F 0.0 49 and below

Your cumulative GPA is the average of all your grade points from all the modules you have taken from the start of your SMU journey. The highest cumulative GPA attainable is 4.00. In the event computations result in a cumu-lative GPA of above 4.00 (i.e. from excessive amounts of A+), a round down approach will be used.

The “bell curve”*SMU does not use a bell-curve system. However, for each module, professors have a certain quota for A+’s, A’s, B+’s etc given out, so even if your final score falls within a certain mark range, you might not get the corresponding grade as indicated in the table above.

GradesAnd what they mean to you

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Academics

Cum laude and merit awardsThese are awards given out for academic excellence upon graduation. SMU uses the cumulative Grade Point Average criteria to identify degree candidates for these awards. The following table indicates the awards given out along with the required cumulative GPA .

Cumulative GPA Award*3.80+ Summa Cum Laude (Highest Distinction)3.60 – 3.79 Magna Cum Laude (High Distinction)3.40 – 3.59 Cum Laude (Distinction)3.20 – 3.39 High Merit3.00 – 3.19 Merit

Cum laude and merit awards will be reflected in both the degree scroll as well as the official transcript.

*Cum laude awards are latin awards adopted from the US system. They do not equate to the various classes of degree honours conferred by universities that follow the British system of Academice honours.

“Let (companies with minimum GPA re-quirements) do what they do...But, don’t let them decide your life for you.”Prof. Howard Hunter, SMU PresidentStudent Feedback Session 2009

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Academics

During our 2nd Students’ Survey, one of the factors that students cited as the difficulties in getting an overseas learning experience such as Business Study Missions, Overseas Exchange etc. is cost. Here in SMU, there are plenty of financial assistance schemes waiting for students to apply for.

What kind of financial assistances are there?

1. Bursaries 2. Computer/Notebook loans 3. Study Abroad Loans – For overseas exchange, business study missions 4. Grants/Subsidies 5. Book Allowance 6. Others

Periodically, emails would be sent out to alert you on the different schemes available and the eligibility criteria. Sometimes, you might be eligible for cer-tain schemes so do be proactive in seeking out the different avenues you can, to ensure that you have an enriching student life!

To find out more about financial assistance schemes, do go to OASIS>Personal & Finances>Financial Assistance Schemes to find out more about the different bursaries, loans and grants available.

Scholarship/AwardsMany students who have excelled in studies and are active in student life have been successful in their application for the various scholarships available to them, be it school wide ones or faculty specific.

One particular scholarship to note is the SMUSA-Bizcom Scholarship, a scholarship for students, by students where candidates are chosen not because of their academic excellence but for their participation and passion for student life.

Financial Assistance Schemes

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Academics

2 candidates are chosen every year by the President of the SMU Students’ As-sociation and the Bizcom Director who is also the Business Secretary of the SA ExCo. Each candidate would receive a sum of $2,500.

The funds come from the profits generated by Bizcom throughout the year.

Work-Study GrantStudents can apply for jobs within the school eg. working in OSL or in the school gym to earn, to earn your own keep.

The Grant assists students who are in need of financial assistance to fund their studies, or to undertake International Exchange Programme, Business Study Mission or overseas Internship.

There has been many students who have benefited from this program, so if you’re looking for more information on the criteria for eligibility, do go to OASIS>Personal & Finances>Financial Assistance Schemes>SMU Work Study Grant

Student employment systemYou can access to employment opportunities through this system! For more information – visit http://www.smu.edu.sg/financial/assistance_schemes/em-ployment_system.asp

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Student LifeLiving the

experience

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Student Life

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Student Life

FreshmenExperience

Organized by the SMU Students’ Association (SMUSA), the Freshmen Experience is the doorway for freshies to step into the SMU family. Consisting of four events, the programme seeks to introduce SMU to its newcomers and kick start the students’ stay in the campus.

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Student Life

Freshmen Team-building CampAs the name implies, the FTB camp’s main goal is to introduce the concept of working in teams through collaboration to the freshmen. Obstacle courses, races, puzzles lie in wait for teams of freshmen to take on the challenge together as a team.

The biggest benefit from FTB is that it breaks down the barriers between freshmen, and then provides the glue that will even-tually bond them together. Such ties are so strong some of them last way beyond graduation.

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Student Life

In other universities, “convocation” usually refers to the graduation ceremony. Don’t be alarmed, as SMU’s convocation celebrates the end of academic studies and the start of the real world for its freshmen. To welcome you, our SMU Chancellor, President, Board of Trustees, Deans and faculty staff and senior students will be present.

There are two segments, the formal ceremonial segment and the informal segment – the latter being a let-your-hair-down-and-party time. Convocation is a celebration of you joining SMU and having come this far. You and your new found friends from FTB will be able to enjoy performances by SMU’s very own bands, dancers, and more.

Convocation

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Student Life

SMU’s annual CCA (Co-curricular Activties) fair, where you can see over 100 clubs and societies on display. A CCA exhibition-cum-recruitment fair, where CCA groups will display their “wares” and hope you will buy into the activities they have in store for you. Remember, there’s more to university life than just getting that paper certificate, so join a CCA (Co-curricular Activity). At SMU, the brightest students know that it pays to study hard, as well as play hard.

Speaking of playing hard, there is no other event like the Freshmen Bash. The last of the 4 events in the Freshmen Experience, students gather and folic in the vibrant nightlife that Singapore has to offer.For some students, it might be their first time touching alcohol, never mind entering a club or a bar. Nonetheless, even if you don’t touch the drinks, you can still enjoy the wide plethora of exciting events and soak up the atmosphere.

The cliché goes: “It is only the end of the begin-ning; there is more than there is to the eye.” The Freshmen Experience indeed marks the beginning of your journey in SMU. As you upload you photos you took at the bash, you recall how crowded and noisy it was at VIVACE, the celebratory moments at Convocation, and the good times you had at the FTB camp. An entirely new and invigorating experi-ence awaits as you take your first step into SMU.

VIVACE (pronounced VEE-VAH-CHEY)

Freshmen Bash

The Journey Begins

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Student Life

School EventsSports Fiesta

Who says you cannot enjoy sports in a City Campus? Space constraint is no barrier to The SMU Sports Union’s endeavor to inject some sportiness into the SMU Community through its annual Sports Fiesta, SMU’s very own sports carnival. Put down the books for some adrenaline filled fun with Floorball, Street Soccer, Dodgeball and many other sports. Keep your eyes peeled during Fall for some adrenaline filled action.

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Student Life

A day celebrated in tribute to SMU’s patron, President SR Nathan, Patron’s Day is also the unofficial annual birthday bash of SMU. A day-long celebration held in 3 stages, past Patron’s Days have seen a formal ceremony honoring the achievements and contributions of SMU students, a whirlwind of performances and ex-hibitions, a variety of fun challenges, and lots of free food.

Patron’s Day

SA Awards NightAn initiative of the SMU Students’ Association, SMUSA Awards Nights aims to recognise the contributions made by exceptional SMU citizens to the school community. These awards are presented to students who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to ensure the vibrancy and diversity of SMU is preserved through the year but have been content to remain in the wings while their peers were in the limelight – These are the unsung heroes of SMU. The Students’ Association be-lieves that it is time that these remark-able individuals were recognised and appreciated for the efforts they have put in to make numerous school events the roaring successes they have been.

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Student Life

AdraceThe SMU Adven-ture Race is an annual adventure race organized by SMUXtrem-ists, the outdoor adventure student body of SMU. This is an introductory one-day adventure race that challenges the participants of different teams through a combination of outdoor adventure elements across different stations in Singapore.

In addition to SMU Students, participants from all walks of life challenge

Nitebike

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Student Life

WaikikiIndulge in some good sandy fun and participate in beach games such as beach soccer, beach volleyball, Frisbee and touch rugby among others.

SMU ChallengeOn the last day at the old Bukit Timah campus, our seniors walked all the way to the current city campus in a move that has now achieved legendary status. Tying in with the upcoming 10th Anniversary Celebrations, the upcoming SMU Challenge will attempt to relive and recreate the awesomeness of that move through a walkathon that will witness students, faculty, alumni, and staff walking together to raise funds for a good cause.

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Student Life

Arts fest

The SMU’s Arts Festival is an annual tradition eagerly anticipated by our students and faculty as a prism through which the arts practices flourishing on campus is focused. The Festival stands out for showcasing our very own student performances and exhibitions peppered with professional talent.

22 January to 12 February 2010 will see the 7th edition of our much-loved Festival. As 2010 heralds the dawn of a new decade for both this millennium and SMU, the Festival’s theme of CON+ENT: CONTEN+ will explore the balance between having and happiness, substance and satisfaction, as well as engage in the soul-searching that complements our celebratory coming-of-age at TEN.

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Student Life

Starry NiteStarry Nite is a night of live music featuring SMU bands and some of the top bands in the local music scene to celebrate the end of the school term (and herald the start of the much dreaded study week). Organised by SMU Soundfoundry, Starry Nite has truly become a permanent and much loved fixture ever since SMU’s move to its current city campus. Do check out Starry Nite on the last Friday of every regular term. What could be bet-ter than the combination of good music, wonderful company and ice cold beers?

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Student Life

Business Study MissionsBSM is a module and qualifies as one credit under Global and Regional Studies. Students undergo a series of lectures from professionals and academics from a particular industry. It then ends with the highly anticipated overseas field trip element where students are immersed in the actual business cultures of that particular country. They will get to visit different companies and understand more about the way businesses are conducted overseas.

Past BSMs include China, New York, and Middle East. The cost of these BSMs typically range from S$3,000 – S$10,000 depending on the country. Students may apply to the various BSMs available throughout the year via email notifications.

Overseas Opportunities

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Student Life

Overseas Community Involvement Programme (OCIP)OCIPs are open to all and are widely publicized, and they also occur quite frequently. They could be organized by student groups indepen-dently or in conjunction with external organizations. Typically, these OCIPs expose students to different cultures and learning opportunities, whilst at the same time, clear the prerequisite 80-hours CIP attachment. Common activities include fundraising, awareness building, teaching underprivileged children, and building or furnishing projects. Upon completion, students are required to sub-mit a written report via SMU OnTRAC.

There are many opportuni-ties to travel to places such as China, Nepal, India, Cambo-dia, Philippines and the costs typically range from S$500 – S$2000, depending on the duration and location.

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Student Life

Summer StudiesSummer Studies are available as a local term or as an exchange program. Cur-rently, the overseas Summer Studies programmes available are to the University of British Columbia, Canada, and University of St. Gallen, Switzerland. Cost of summer studies at these 2 universities range from S$3,600 – S$5600, and term time is usually between the months of May to June.

Work and Travel USAWork and Travel USA offers students a chance to gain both work experience and travel with the continental United States. Tertiary students have a chance to undertake summer jobs in theme parks, restaurants and resorts in the United States. Speedwing Training (Asia) is an agency in Singapore that organizes the Work and Travel USA program. For a fee of around S$3000, Speedwing will arrange for the job placement, visas and air tickets required for the program. Jobs, salaries and living costs vary from state to state and availability. One at-tractive feature of the program is that participants are often able to earn enough to cover their extra travelling expenses from their summer job. There will be a Work & Travel Orientation organized by Speedwing Training (Asia) Pte Ltd for interested students during Term 1 of each academic year.

Overseas Student Exchange ProgrammeSMU currently has 173 agreements with partner universities across 45 differ-ent countries. The exchange program has often been referred to as the highlight of an SMU student’s college experience. The chance to live and experience a foreign country independently certainly adds a global perspective to one’s edu-cation. Interacting with students with a different take on things certainly adds to the secularity. This is in addition to the innumerous friends to be made and the countless parties to attend. Did we mention the parties?

To be eligible for an exchange, students must not be on academic probation (GPA must not be below 2.0) and must have completed at least 1 year of stud-ies at SMU. (Exception: SIS Students can only go on exchange after year 3) Applications are conducted twice a year for Terms 1 and 2, and the application process starts as early as 6 – 8 months before the start of the exchange term.

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Student Life

There will be relevant information briefing sessions conducted in January and June every year for interested students.

Although there is no need to pay additional tuition fees, the estimated cost of an exchange for one term is between S$4,000 – S$12,000, depending on cur-rency exchange rates and costs of living in the particular country. Students go-ing for exchange must also arrange their own insurance, immigration require-ments, travel visas, and travel and accommodation arrangements.

For more information and assistance, please log on to Oasis > Study > Other Study Activities > International Exchange.

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Student Life

Words cannot describe the awesome experience I had on this summer ex-change. I made many lasting friendships as we developed a strong bond with each other, becoming some sort of a “family” while we’re there. Going overseas for a month really opened my eyes up to the world. I’ve learnt to be more independent and gain a better understanding of life in general. I had the op-portunity to try many things, I went ziplining, white-water rafting, gliding, paragliding and those braver at heart attempted bungee jumping and sky-diving! The highlight of this exchange was our trip to the Canadian rockies, where we visited a Canadian couple’s home on the way, camped out in the cold, barbequed food over a campfire and encountered wild animals, and of course basked in the splendor and beauty of the natural scenery. These wonderful memories will remain close to my heart forever. I’d highly encourage anyone to go for summer exchanges! What more can you ask for, clearing 2 modules in a month and having so much fun at the same time! (;- Teo Su Ling

Quotes from our students

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Student Life

Exchange was indeed an incredible experience. Through this unique opportu-nity, I was able to immerse myself in a new culture and gain new perspectives of what the world has to offer. In addition, it was a plus to be able to travel around while studying!-Sara Wong Shun Khee

It was an eye opening experience that allowed me to learn about theworld we live in and even more about my self.

Being alone in a distant foreign land taught me to be so much more selfreliant. For one, having to cook my meals daily due to expensive foodprices raised my culinary skills to a whole new level!

Being on exchange also allowed me to interact with foreign students,opening doors to lasting relationships with people from differentnationalities. This gave me the opportunity of learning so much aboutdifferent cultures and a chance to view the world through their eyes,none of which would have been possible in the classroom.- Lee Young

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Student Life

Get Involved

What defines the SMU culture? Answers you may get vary across a range of adjectives like “edgy,” “different,” “vibrant,” to “SMU-gger,” and many more. If you’re here to just get that summa cum laude, then there’s so much of student life at SMU that you’ll be missing out on!

Other than the emails from Professors, TAs and project group-mates, do take time to read the other emailers that arrive in your email.smu.edu.sg inbox. The school calendar is packed with many exciting events throughout the year, and these are primarily publicized through emailers to the school community, so don’t hit Ctrl+Del key all too soon!

Wondering how to play an active part in SMU, but just don’t know where to start? Here’s a suggested checklist to get you started on a dynamic student life outside your Seminar Rooms.

Step in to a whole new world

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Student Life

A. Join a club or society that best fits your interests and talentsB. Pick up a new language, musical instrument or sportC. Volunteer at an SMU eventD. Join an organizing com-mittee for an SMU eventE. Get involved with com-munity service, or even go on an OCIP!F. Collaborate with friends to start a small business venture on campusG. Participate in competi-tions that might just earn you that extra credit

Academics and extra-curricular participation are not necessarily mutu-ally-exclusive; that person throwing the frisbee at you in Campus Green might very well be your Prof next semester!

Class participation might affect your grade, but active student life will define your raison d’etre in SMU. Don’t let the next three years pass you by, get involved!

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Student Life

The Students' Association CouncilThe SA Executive Committee, 6 School Constituent Bodies (CBds) and 4 CCA CBds make up the Students’ Association Council (SAC).

The 9th SA ExCo hopes to foster an irreplaceable SMU identity among all students, representing them to the various administrative offices to lobby on behalf of students to better the life, culture and environment of SMU.

The SA is always looking out for new initiatives for the benefit of the student population and will support you with the resources and links where possible. SMUSA welcomes any feedback or suggestion you might have to improve SMU. With the benefit of new media, the SA has a number of feedback chan-nels just for you to voice your opinions:

A. Twitter (@SMUeets)B. Join a Facebook Group (“I am a member of the Students’ Association”)C. Email smusa@smu.edu.sgD. Call any member of the SA ExCoE. Visit the SA ExCo office (ln the CCA room along the concourse)

To find out more about what SMUSA does, and who exactly we are, please check out www.smusa.sg.

Building SMUtogether

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Student Life

CCA Constituient bodiesTogether, these CBd’s administrate more than 115 CCAs in SMU. Though relatively young, SMU has a sizeable number of diverse CCAs, which contributes to the vibrant student life here. The CCA CBds represent the interests of all clubs and societies, working closely with SMU’s administrative offices to meet student’s needs.

Arts & Cultural Fraternity (ACF)Feeling it, Loving it, Flaunting it! That is exactly what the Arts and Cultural Fraternity is about. ACF super-vises 26 arts and cultural clubs in SMU. From promot-ing the arts in SMU to planning university-wide events such as the annual SMU Arts Festival, the ACF is the standard bearer of arts, culture and vibrancy in SMU.

SMU Sports Union (SSU)SSU manages all sporting activities in SMU. It aims to promote sporting excellence and to encourage all students to see the value in taking up sports. With 40 different sports clubs under its umbrella, SSU also organizes events such as their annual sports carnival, Waikiki, Sports Awards Night and Sports Camp.

SMUXtremists (SMUX)Comprising of 6 teams – biking, diving, kayaking, skat-ing, trekking and XSeed – SMUX is the club to join for outdoor adventure. It also organizes activities such as Nite Bike, overseas trekking (to places as far as Africa!), white-water rafting expeditions, and much more.

Special Interest and Community Service Sodality (SICS)Clubs such as SMU E.y.E, Red Cross and Recreational Gaming are a few of the 27 community service or spe-cial interest clubs that SICS oversees. It promotes niche interests in SMU through developing leaders of the various clubs under its wing.

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The 6 school CBds are Bondue, ASOC, The Bar, SISS, SES and SSS. They look after the welfare and interests of the students, as well as organize events for the students to interact with one another within their respective faculties. Along with the SA ExCo, the CBd Presidents make up the SAC.

SISS (School of Information Systems Society)SISS represents all students from the School of Information Systems, looking after the interests and welfare of all SIS students. Though a small faculty, its members are closely-knit. SISS also organizes events ranging from their annual bash to the fresh-men orientation camp Metamorphosis. (http://www.siss.sg)

Oikos (Economics Society)Oikos acts in the interest all Economics students, with the aim to unite the SMU Economics com-munity, establishing a home away from home. Some significant events include the Oikos Bash, Econs Chalet and the annual dinner Intermezzo. (http://www.economics.smu.edu.sg/students/current/activity.asp)

School of Social Sciences Society (SSS)A society by students, for students, SSS looks after the interests and welfare of all Social Sciences stu-dents. It values familial togetherness and organizes events such as Lift Off ! and the T-shirt party for its SOSS students to enjoy each other’s company in a relaxed setting. (http://www.socsc.smu.edu.sg/students/current/activity1.asp)

School Constituient bodies

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Student Life

Bondue (Business Society)Bondue represents the Business school community, and aims to enhance student life and welfare in LKCSB and to facili-tate communication between the faculty and students. Bondue Bash and Vegas Night are major highlights in the Bondue Calendar. (http://www.bondue.smusa.sg) ASOC (Accountancy Society)Representing students and alumni from the School of Accountancy, ASOC hopes to enrich student life in SOA and promote integration between its students and faculty. It organizes key events such as ASOC Day and the ASOC Gala Din-ner. (http://links.smu.edu.sg/cca/asoc)

The Bar (Law Society)Representing all Law students, The Bar works closely with the school and legal fraternity for the benefit of Law students, with events such as Lawlympics. It aims to foster a fun and loving community, creating an identity that everyone single SMU Law student can be proud of !

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Student Life

Student Council of Discipline (SCD)Campaigning to inculcate values such as integrity and honesty, the Council cooperates with students to enhance SMU’s reputation as a premier institu-tion of higher learning. The SCD also initiate several programmes on campus, including the latest “Plagman” campaign against plagiarism.

SMU Ambassadors (ASMU)

ASMU represents SMU, engaging with all external stakeholders, from foreign dignitaries to prospective students. Working closely with various administrative offices, they manage projects that reach out to external stakeholders. SMU Am-bassadors are made up of articulate and confident students who are passionate about the University and always ready to share about their SMU experience.

SMU Alumni Association (SMUAA)SMUAA is a guild for SMU alumni to connect with the SMU community and a commitment to support and strengthen their alma mater. It does so through initiating meaningful activities such as industry networking opportunities and class reunions. It provides a platform for alumni to contribute back, through the two annual scholarships to support SMU students.

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SMU Peer HelpersPeer Helpers(PH) are full-time undergraduate students trained in coun-seling skills and supervised by Counsellors from the Centre for Counselling and Guidance.

Their mission is to provide a listening ear and a shoulder for fellow students.They operate the SMU Wellness Centre, a tranquil place for students to de-stress and unwind.

During the course of this school term, the PH frequently have lots of ex-citing events lined up for everyone in school. These events always bring a wide smile on everyone’s faces, their fun and lighthearted programme helping to ease the mad rush during school term.Vist them at http://smu-peerhelpers.org/

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Areas ofInterest

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Areas of Interest

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Areas ofInterest

Rochor Original Beancurd2 Short Street

Min Eryimin Beancurd4 Short StreetThese two stalls started out as one run by broth-ers. Owing to a feud, they split into two ad-joining, competing stalls. However, both shops still sell the smoothest, silkiest Tau Huay around that is perfect with an equally yummy You Tiao or two. Though Rochor out-shines in popularity, there really is no difference in the Tau Huay offered by both. Walk towards Selegie Road from the School of Social Science/Economics. Both shops are located side by side just behind the SMU hostel.

Feed your desiresDelicious and affordable food beyond the campus

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Areas ofInterest

Al-Jilani127 Bencoolen Street24 hourLate nights in SMU are a common occurrence in SMU. It is imperative you know about this 24-hour eatery located just opposite of NAFA to quell those late night hunger pangs. Al-Jilani offers an extensive menu contains a variety of Indian-Muslim food, and even western food.

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Areas ofInterest

Le Café Pastry264 Middle Road(65) 6337 2417Mon to Sat: 10.30 am – 7pmSun and Public Holidays: 10.30am – 3pmIf you leave your SMU years without trying the bean curd tarts at Le Café Pastry, do pretend that you did. Your tertiary education in SMU would be incomplete without these bite-sized mouthfuls of orgasmic goodness.The Tau Huey-like filling with that little hint of almond hits all the right notes of sweetness without the sometimes overwhelmingly rich taste of egg tarts. They come in boxes of 8 and you can opt for all original (S$8) or mixed-flavours (S$9). Another must-try is the golf-ball sized pineapple tarts (S$6.80 for ten pieces). As the bean curd tarts are hot-sellers, the people here would appreciate pre-orders.

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Areas ofInterest

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Fong Seng Nasi Lemak131 Bencoolen Street

Despite how NUS students might claim this is not as good as the orginal leg-endary main branch at Clementi, the Bencoolen Street store serves one of the best nasi lemak in the area. A great place to have great food and chillout after long projects meetings and mug-ga-thons. Did we mention there is air-con?

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Areas ofInterest

Fresh from the oven, this muffin is rather light compared to American style muffin. With a generous serving of chocolate chips as well as chocolate filling in the muffin, it the perfect choice to satisfy your sweet tooth. However, since the muffins are only baked when they are almost sold out, being able to get one may depend on your luck.

Delicious Muffins (Closed on 8th, 18th and 28th of every month. Mon-Fri: 10.30am-8pm, week-ends and holidays: 12pm-8pm)

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Areas ofInterest

Victor’s Kitchen91 Bencoolen Street, #01-21 Sunshine PlazaTue to Sun: 10.30am – 8pmClosed on Mondays

Hidden inside Sunshine Plaza is a small, non-descript haven of authentic Hong Kong dim sum. Victor’s kitchen is opened by Chef Victor who has had many a year of experience inside Hong Kong’s finest dim sum kitchens. Choose from a wide dim sum range that offers delectable King Prawn Dumplings to fragrant Chicken and Sausage in Glutinous Rice. Each dish is priced from S$3-S$4. You will want to come early before lunch hour as the place gets pretty crowded thanks to its delicious offerings and affordable price tag.

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Areas ofInterest

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Areas ofInterest

Ishi Mura at POMO1 Selegie Road, PoMo CentreThis Japanese-theme food court located on the 2nd floor of PoMo is one of the newest and favourite food spots among SMU students. The place is nicely done up in true Japanese fashion. Ambience aside, what really makes students returning time and time again is the variety of Japanese food they offer (Oko-nomiyaki, Ramen, Sashimi, Bento and so much more) at affordable food court prices. Good quality and cheap Japanese food is no longer a myth!

Loving Hut35 Selegie Road, #01-07 Parklane Shtopping MallThis is one for the vegetarians. With main dishes priced at about S$5, indulge in tasty vegetarian fare at affordable prices.

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Areas ofInterest

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Areas ofInterest

Victoria Street Food Centre143 Victoria StreetMore affectionately known to SMU students as “Si Mian Fuo” (Four-faced Buddha), this is another favourite24-hour food haunt for the overnight SMU population. It is located just a short walk from the Administration Building, right beside Allson Hotel. Popular eats are the XO Fish Soup Bee Hoon and Prawn Mee. Do check out the Curry Fish Head from the Zi Char stall as well!

Magic WokFor tasty Thai-Chinese food at affordable prices, check out Magic Wok. They have got a good range of one-plate-meals at just S$4.80 or you could try their ala carte items priced slightly higher. You’ll find Magic Wok along the row of shops across the road from the SMRT building just outside the SOB. The Fried Beef Kway Teow and Thai Pineapple rice comes highly recommended!

Miss Clarity Café5 Purvis Street, #01-0411am – 11pm (Closed on Sundays)In their own words, “sit back, soak up our happy atmosphere, and let us pamper you with our services and fine food”. Miss Clarity Café offers a pretty exten-sive menu of western food and a variety of set meals over a wide price range. Students get 15% off between 2.30pm and 5.30pm from Mondays to Fridays. Go weak in the knees with their Mud Oooz!

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Areas ofInterest

Ji De Chi8 Liang Seah St, #01-03Sunday to Thursday 11am – 11pmFriday and Saturday 11am – 11.30pmLiang Seah Street has a few dessert shops but this one comes most highly recommended. Try their Durian Puree with Pomelo Sago (S$6.00) and you would have thought your-self dead and in the streets of heaven. The texture is thick and creamy and every mouthful is filled with durian goodness. For non-Durian lovers, try the White Fungus with Papaya (S$2.30) or Mango Pomelo with Sago (Sweet in Heart) (S$3.50). With the wide variety of hot, cold, traditional and modern desserts, you will definitely find something that is perfect for you.

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EntertainmentNational Museum of Singapore93 Stamford Roadwww.nationalmuseum.sgLocated just across Campus Green beside the SOA/SOL, the National Museum presents one of the prettiest sights visible from SMU. Described as “Singapore’s oldest museum with the youngest and most innovative soul”, wit-ness history presented in non-conventional, varied, and cutting-edge ways. The National Museum continuously presents feasts of culture and heritage through its many vibrant festivals and events. Do keep a look out for the special exhibi-tions they have so often. For more activities and information, check out their website.

Opening hours are from 10am – 6pm daily for the Singapore History Gallery, and 10am – 8pm daily for the Singapore Living Galleries

Singapore Arts Museum71 Bras Basah Roadwww.singart.comIf you are an art aficionado with a soft spot for Southeast Asian art, drop by for the world’s largest public collection of modern and contemporary Southeast Asian artworks. The Singapore Art Museum is located across the road from Campus Green, along the same stretch as Kopitiam. It opens 10am – 7pm from Monday to Sunday, with an extension until 9pm on Fridays. Admission is free 6pm – 9pm on Fridays; otherwise admission is S$4.00 for students.

Peranakan Museum39 Armenian Streetwww.peranakanmuseum.sgWith the buzz The Little Nyonya has created, you just might be interested in this little gem. Boasting the world’s finest and most comprehensive collec-tion of Peranakan artefacts, this boutique museum presents an enjoyable and educational forage into a rich and unique culture. A short walk from the SOA/SOL will take you there. Opening hours are as follows:Monday: 1pm – 7pmTuesday to Sunday: 9.30am – 7pm (to 9pm on Fridays)

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Areas ofInterest

Timbre @ The Substation45 Armenian Street, Singapore 179936www.timbre.com.sgTake a break from the chaos that is SMU at the “Music Oasis within the City”. With live music every night in a cozy al fresco setting, Timbre @ The Substation is the perfect place to chill-out with your buddies over drinks, good conversation, and some really good food. Walk over from the SOA/SOL.Happy Hour is from 6pm-9pm daily and there are different promotions for drinks for every night of the week. Timbre is quite a hotspot, especially on weekends, so do make a reservation through their website beforehand.

Our personal favourites: The wide-range of scrumptious thin-crust pizzas and of course, the best local band ever, The Goodfellas.

MoviesMovie buffs out there, boy, are you lucky to be in SMU. With plenty of the-atres located within walking distance, you are literally spoilt for choice. Pick your movie theater of choice from among the following:The Cathay Cineplex2 Handy Road, Levels 5&6, The Cathay (you can’t miss it from SESS)www.cathay.com.sg

Golden Village (GV), Plaza Singapura68 Orchard Road, 7th Floor, Plaza Singapurawww.gv.com.sg

Bugis Cineplex200, Victoria Street, #04-02, Parco Bugis Junctionwww.shaw.sg

All three cinemas above offer student rates at $6.00 per ticket from Mondays to Fridays, for movies before 6pm.

Flimgarde201 Victoria Street , Level 5 Iluma, Bugis

If you are looking for spacious seats and less crowds, Flimgarde is a new cinema opposite Bugis Junction.

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ITMatters

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I.T. Matters(It really does)

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Wifi-SetupFor Vista systems not using the SMU password login

Start > Connect to12

3 Click “Manually connect to a wireless network

This is a quick reference guide for those of you who had bought laptops not from SMU vendors, and want to get Wifi setup without going to CIT office.

This is also for users who prefer their laptops not to have the SMU password log in when it boots, but still want to connect to wifi in campus.

For those who already have configured their laptops to have the SMU log in, but want to repair the wireless connection, please go download the Wifi setup program from CIT at: http://www.smu.edu.sg/cit/helpdesk/student/connect_wireless.aspIt is much easier, and fully automated.

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4

5

Enter the info as below, and click Next

Click Change Connection Settings

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6

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Enter the selection in the check boxes as follows

Click the Security tab next, don’t click “OK” yet.

Enter the info in the drop-down lists as follows:

Click Settings.Don’t click OK yet.

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Unclick “Validate Server Certificate”, and ensure the other information as as follows.

Click configure, don’t click OK yet. Not yet.

Uncheck this option.

Click OK to all the windows that were open. (Finally)

A prompt should pop up in the bottom right, asking for credentials.

If this does not happen, reset your wire-less adaptor by switching it off and on.

Enter in your log in info.

15 Enjoy the internets. Responsibly.

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IT TipsHow To Setup Wireless access for XP and Mac?No we have not forgotten you guys, you can head to http://www.smu.edu.sg/cit/helpdesk/student/connect_wireless.aspand download the manuals to set up your wireless connections

TIY: Try it yourselfWhile it is easy to just bring your laptop and whine about all sorts of small problems to CIT, most of them can be solved on your own.

Head to www.smu.edu.sg/cit/helpdesk/student/index.asp

If you are already in the CIT office, take a look at the printed guides that they have there, before engaging the staff.

I’m a MAC!We even have a CCA that cares for Apple products users, check out their com-prehensive guides for various applications.

www.smumacness.com

Wait what about...?

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Email ForwardingForwarding to gmail or other mailsFor some of you who have too many emails that you want to keep, the storage space is just not enough. Email forwarding means moving ALL of the email files from your account in the school servers to another location, be it your PC or Gmail. In this guide, we will show how to foward your email to Gmail.

Insufficient Email Space? No problem!

Go to your gmail account, click “settings”.1

2Click “Add a mail account you own”

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3Enter in your email address

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4Enter in your user name and pass-worde.g. “roland.yeo.2010”

5 Select email.smu.edu.sg, port 995

6If you want to move your email from the school server, and put it all into your Gmail account, check this option.

7 Click this option

8It is recommended to create a new label for your SMU mail, so that you can filter effeciently as you add more accounts.

9(Optional) Click archive incoming messagges.

10Click “Add account”

11Go to the settings page on step 2 again, and "Add another email address you own" under "Send mail as"

12Enter in your school email address.Google will send a email, just click the confirmation link and its done.

NOTE:When sending to school admin-stration offices and professors, make sure you send as your school email address (click “Change” at the “From:” line). No one is go-ing to know who is sundown88@gmail.com

Remeber to change the password through “edit info” everytime you change your SMU password.

MEGA Tip: Keep your email address short: “@smu.edu.sg” works as well as“@business.smu.edu.sg”

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