Office of Study Abroad

Profile: Emily Hou '26

Major/minor: Biology and Health: Science, Society and Policy majors

Study abroad program: National University of Singapore, Academic Year 2024-25

Reason you chose this program: I chose this program for the diverse culture and rich food scene in Singapore! Additionally, I wanted to experience studying in a country with a different education system, leading medical research field, and new environment.

Favorite classes: My favorite course was Digital Art and Design, which was a class on digital painting and drawing techniques. I have never taken a digital art course before, despite being a digital artist myself, and found myself learning so many new skills and techniques I never imagined myself learning without the course. Another favorite course of mine was human anatomy, where I was allowed the privilege to have silent mentor labs and various specimens as course references.

How did you incorporate your Brandeis areas of study into your study abroad experience? I took various public health campaign courses during my time abroad, which allowed me to apply my knowledge of American healthcare and policies into these campaigns. As a result, I was able to gain a global perspective of healthcare.

Housing situation: I lived in one of the Halls of NUS (HONUS) named King Edward VII Hall, which allowed me to integrate into the campus culture and extracurricular activities. Furthermore, it is through my time in KEVII that I was able to meet so many local friends and create lasting bonds. Some of the Hall clubs that I joined include Block Committee, Floorball, Hallplay, and Dance. As a result, I was able to perform in the annual Dance Uncensored performance, play in the competitive IHG, and generate various events for the my hall block.

What were some parts of your identity that you thought about while considering study abroad? As a Taiwanese-American, I found myself integrating in the local culture and population a lot easier than some of my peers due to the fact that I not only lived in a hall, but I spoke both Chinese Mandarin and English. Due to my bilingual abilities, many of the local students found it easier to speak to me using Singlish and also found many common grounds with my background. However, other exchange students may find it harder to integrate into the culture, especially if they are unfamiliar with local customs, food, or language.

Favorite memory: I loved getting supper at 2-3 am with my friends or floorball team and just yapping with them while we ate maggie mee, fried chicken, and other delicious foods!

What was your greatest challenge? My greatest challenge abroad was adjusting to the education system and homesickness. It took me a while to find my footing on how to study and learn in the classes due to the vastly different format and grading system. Additionally, I wasn't able to visit my parents on the weekend like many of my peers, which made it even more isolating.

What do you know now that you didn't know before? I'm aware of a lot of the political concerns people have in Singapore now, as well as people's view on racism, sexism, mental health and LGBTQ. Although Singapore is considered a very progressive country, I was made aware that there are many steps that have to be taken still in their society regarding these topics.

Fact about Singapore that you think people would be surprised to learn: Previously, I thought people were joking when they said Singapore is small. Now, I know Singapore REALLY is small.