Harrold Pok

Share with us more about the research you did after high school when deciding which university to choose?

I first visited SMU while on holiday in Singapore when I had unknowingly walked through the campus. I began researching universities in Singapore since I would be moving for National Service. I discovered SMU modelled itself after global business schools, particularly Wharton, and emphasized a westernized, interactive learning approach that appealed to me, as it aligned more with my learning preferences compared to a purely academic environment.

Please share two key highlights of your academic experience in SMU thus far 

a.    Management Communication with Petrina Tee. The intimate setting of the class made it feel like a small, close-knit family, where discussions were natural, and it didn’t even feel like a typical classroom experience. It was more conversational, which made it very enjoyable and engaging.

b.    Economic Development in Asia where one of my good friends and I did an unforgettable presentation on Gender Gap in Education in Pakistan that we still talk about today.

What advice would you give to prospective students (especially your juniors from IB) who are thinking of applying to SMU? 

If you enjoy a city campus environment with small class sizes and a strong focus on practical skills over academic theory, SMU is for you.