Exploring Business Horizons: Thirteen BINUSIANS Embark to National University of Singapore Business and Economics Summer Camp

From the 11th of July until the 15th of July 2023, Thirteen BINUSIANS embarked on an unforgettable learning experience that took place at the National University of Singapore, for the Business and Economics Summer Camp. The program allowed students to get a holistic understanding of numerous aspects of the business world while expanding their social network with students from around the world. For a whole week, the schedule was balanced between interactive workshops, inspiring guest lectures, engaging industry and campus visits, and stimulating group discussions that encouraged collaboration among peers from diverse cultural backgrounds. 

Theresia Marsha Marinska Patricia Ritonga, an 11th-grade student at BINUS SCHOOL Serpong, shared her thrilling experience with her fellow BINUSIANS and new peers from different countries. Beyond the academic aspect, this hands-on experience taught her how to adapt to the new environment of Singapore as if she was a local.

“NUS Business & Economics camp was extremely fun. Not only did I get to learn a subject that I was unfamiliar with, but I got to learn it with professors who were really passionate about the topic. I also made a lot of friends from other countries too! The programme allowed us to explore Singapore like a local, where we can take the bus in the University Town of NUS, use MRT when we want to explore, and the most fun part for me, thrifting with my friends!” said Faya.

On their first day of the programme, the first activity was an Agile-Move simulation exercise; where students were given scenarios of common problems faced by global companies. The students applied their theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios and it allowed students to directly engage with their group mates for the first time; having a discussion with them to find the possible solutions, which nurtured their communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. 

In the afternoon, the schedule continued with an insightful industry visit to Amazon Web Services (AWS) and a government gallery visit to the Urban Redevelopment Authority. Students were able to directly witness and interact with how the professionals at AWS worked in the technology industry and the company’s innovations.

Sakina Alidha Iskarmuniza Hadju, an 11th-grade student at BINUS SCHOOL Serpong, expressed her gratitude as she was able to directly witness the world of Amazon Web Services and Singapore’s national land-use planning, providing her the opportunity to get a deeper understanding of the technology industry that is being used in our modern society.

“We went to Amazon Web Service Singapore where we got to see how digital clouds work and we visited Urban Redevelopment Authority, Singapore’s national land-use planning and conservation authority. Visiting Amazon Web Service Singapore gave me an insight into what’s actually behind the cloud’. As an IT student, it was an interesting experience getting to delve deeper into how the cloud works right on the spot/Amazon Web Service Singapore. For me, the overall programme was such an experience; I personally would go again if I had the chance to and I am very grateful that I joined the NUS Business & Economics Summer Camp as my very first summer camp programme, ” said Kaniz.

The second day started with enlightening and eye-opening lectures delivered by esteemed professors from NUS’ business and economics faculty. The lectures focused on topics such as digital marketing, social marketing, and cryptocurrency; which gave the opportunity for the students to expand their knowledge regarding the business world.

In the afternoon, the students got to experience a hands-on school tour of the NUS Business campus, giving them inspiration and motivation to aim high and enter the prestigious university. Afterward, the students embarked on a city tour, where they got to explore the beautiful cities in Singapore; Allowing to experience the vibrant cosmopolitan city. 

The third day of the program was devoted to enriching lectures, covering broader topics from the business world. Where the experts and professors gave their valuable insights of complex topics, including the changing business landscape, the impact of AI, and green finance and economy. The lectures were engaging, giving the chance for students to have active participation and voice any opinions or inquiries they may have. The day also featured a detailed and informative NUS Office Admissions talk, presenting the university’s prestigious academic offerings for possible future students of NUS Business School and giving the youth motivation for excellence in their education.

On the fourth day, the morning started with another insightful lecture about behavioural economics, and in the afternoon the students were enthusiastic about Universal Studios Singapore. Universal Studios Singapore gave students a well-deserved break to unwind and simply have fun with their new friends from around the world.

Edgar Novandy, an 11th-grade student at BINUS SCHOOL Serpong, talked about his experiences with his new friends from around the world for the whole week he spent at National University of Singapore. 

“At first we were taught a lot of things and also were simulated to a business so that we can experience the real business operations and how it works. We also have a lot of ‘Question and Answer’ sessions so that we would have further information about the business and how it runs. We can socialise with others from different countries and also make a lot of new friends, and I did make some friends from some different countries, France, India, and some Indonesians as well, and I got to hang out with them in Universal Studios at the end of the program.” said Edgar.

As the program reached its end, the last day began with a quiz to assess the students’ grasp of the theories that were covered throughout the program. The quiz added an element of friendly competition as awards were given at the end of it, giving the prize winners a sense of accomplishment.

The National University of Singapore’s Business and Economics Summer Camp proved to be a thrilling and eye-opening experience for all participants. The itinerary was a perfect balance between academic trials, hands-on exposure of the challenges in the business industry, cultural exploration, and thrilling recreational experiences.