Singapore: Andrew Zhang (Final Reflections)
As my program comes to an end, the thought of saying goodbye and leaving Singapore fills me with dread. This has been my favorite summer of my life, and it has unfortunately flown by. Over the past two months, not only have we conducted meaningful research under the guidance of professionals, but I have also met a group of amazing people with whom I am so grateful to have shared many memories as we explored Singapore and embraced a new culture.
Looking back on past experiences, it feels surreal, almost as if they never happened. But the photos, shared experiences, and personal connections will forever stay with us, acting as tangible reminders of these moments. I can confidently say that I will always remember this summer: the new lifelong friendships that have been formed, the countless memories I have made, and the research and mentorship from top professors in their field.
I would like to give special thanks to Dr. Kelvin Fong for his invaluable mentorship and for helping me realize my passion for research. Applying what we have learned in the classroom in Madison to solve complex issues has been extremely rewarding. I am deeply grateful for his support and encouragement throughout this journey.
Andrew Zhang
Hometown: Beijing, China
Major: Computer Sciences; Data Science; Mathematics
Program: National University of Singapore SERIUS Engineering Exchange
I chose this program because it aligns closely with my passion for artificial intelligence. I’m working on a research project that I find incredibly engaging and promising. This project not only fuels my intellectual curiosity but also has the potential to make a significant positive impact on numerous lives across the globe. The opportunity to delve deeper into my research within this program’s innovative environment is something I find deeply motivating.
What I’m most looking forward to about the program city is the opportunity to immerse myself in the local educational culture by experiencing what it’s like to attend a local school in Asia. Although I grew up in Asia, my experience in an international school was quite sheltered from the local context. I’m eager to engage with the community, understand the contrast in educational experiences, and meet people with different life stories from my own.