Random Walks in Science is a USP interest group that was organically started by a professor. It is now entirely student-run, with an academic advisor providing guidance to the group.

The sailing activity was started by Assoc Prof Henz, who roped in his sailing buddy, Assoc Prof Cord Axel Müller , a physics PhD. Varun volunteered to help coordinate.

Before setting sail, students are given a tour of the boat yard where they observe different boat designs and receive an outdoor theory session on the physics of sailing and the workings of a boat.

The group comprises those with and without sailing experience; those without sailing experience are given specific tasks so they are involved in the “running” of the boat. Everyone gets to helm the boat and feel the forces of wind and water first-hand.

Varun:

USP is unique in having interdisciplinary modules and gives you the chance to learn things that are not offered in any other faculty.

One of the best things about USP is the community of people, the conception and acceptance of ideas, and how they are critically discussed.

I also appreciate that both the professors and administration are very well-connected to the students.

Safiah:

The modules are very interesting and I felt that the compulsory modules on writing and critical thinking would benefit my studies in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences as well. I really treasure the exposure I get from being part of USP.

There is no fear in speaking your thoughts at USP. Especially when juniors take seminars with their seniors, they start getting into this open culture.

Varun:

Life at Cinnamon College is very different from living in the halls or residences, because here we have a very integrated environment in which things are happening all the time – not just recreational events, but learning activities.

We are in a community where a lot of collaboration happens – student-initiated projects, overseas trips, etc. – and ideas for these spark off through conversations at the dining hall and late-at-night.

Another unique feature is the opportunity of having USP professors live and dine with us. In fact, the “Physics of Sailing” trip was developed through a discussion with Assoc Prof Henz during one of our dinners at the dining hall.

Safiah:

With professors living among us, the learning continues beyond the classroom and we get to hear about their experiences beyond their academic disciplines. Taking classes with the people you live with is also something really unique from the other halls and residences at NUS.

Assoc Prof Henz:

NUS has become a world-class university with excellent facilities. University Town (UTown) is pretty unique -- a bold initiative to combine learning and living. I find it very exciting to be part of this new experience.

Safiah:

I appreciate the convenience of having really useful facilities at UTown, with power points everywhere and 24-hour computer labs. Facilities on UTown as a whole are accessible and just 5 minutes away.

The Central Forum is a great place for its flow of people and to meet friends with different majors.

NUS is also the oldest university, so the activities are more developed. I don’t think anyone can say their interest isn’t catered to in NUS.

Varun:

My favourite thing about NUS is USP − the people, programmes and facilities. The people I’ve met in USP are truly unique; they’re very passionate and driven individuals with a healthy dose of curiosity. I enjoy such company and think it is great for materialising collaborations. The programme, as I’ve mentioned, is unique and provides students many opportunities to chart their own development in university.

I also like that Wi-Fi coverage in NUS is pretty extensive –there is even Wi-Fi on buses.