So you've fought valiantly through all other applicants and managed to score a spot in NUS CDE. Glad to see you here!
As an undergraduate, you'll gain valuable skills and experiences for your future career. With numerous options to choose from, it's natural to feel overwhelmed. But fear not! University life is like a choose-your-adventure book, where you can customize your path to suit your interests and goals. This guide will help you navigate the essentials and unlock a rewarding university experience!
Freshman Year (Year 1)
As a freshman, you have the luxury of time to adjust to university life. Take this opportunity to explore different Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs), engage in fun events, and build connections. You can choose to challenge yourself academically by taking on a heavier course load to clear Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory (S/U) options. Additionally, it's the ideal time to reassess your course and consider transferring if needed.
Find your rhythm and adapt to uni life.
Explore CCAs and participate in events to broaden your horizons.
Form a solid foundation of friends and connections.
Confirm/affirm your decision in your major.
Sophomore Year (Year 2)
In Year 2, it's crucial to plan ahead! Map out your course choices for the rest of your university journey, including considering a second major or minor. Declare your intentions and start working towards fulfilling the requirements. Begin exploring internship opportunities by attending the annual CDE Career Fair and/or NUS Career Fest and other networking events. This year is also perfect for enhancing your leadership skills and accumulating volunteer experience.
Plan your course roadmap, including any second major or minor.
Connect with companies and employers through career fairs.
Develop leadership skills and gain volunteer experience.
Explore research opportunities to expand your knowledge.
Junior Year (Year 3)
As a penultimate student, you will likely embark on an Internship Attachment module. Your networking efforts from the previous year should pay off now. Take the time to refine your interview and interpersonal skills to secure a fulfilling internship. Start contemplating your dissertation and identify professors with whom you'd like to work in your final year.
Secure an internship through your network and acquired experience.
Strengthen your interview and interpersonal skills.
Plan for your dissertation and identify potential supervisors.
Senior Year (Year 4)
Ahh… final year, final battle. You've come so far, and now it's time to bring it all together and finish with a flourish! Hone your skills, fulfill any remaining module requirements, and strive towards achieving the minimum units needed for graduation. Once your dissertation is complete, it's time to embrace the real world and embark on your post-university journey.
Polish your skillsets and make the most of your final year.
Clear any remaining courses necessary for graduation.
Complete your dissertation successfully.
Prepare for life after university and explore new opportunities.
Remember, this guide provides a general framework, but your journey may deviate based on personal choices, such as transferring courses, taking a leave of absence (LOA), or opting for a heavier course load.
Embrace the uniqueness of your university experience, seize every opportunity to grow and flourish, and make the most of this incredible chapter in your life. See you around campus!
Comments