Lauren Koek

Why did you choose to come to SMU? 

Having studied in Canada for eight years, I felt a strong desire to return to Singapore to continue my education. When selecting the right university, I prioritized finding a place that would allow me to explore my wide range of interests in a multidisciplinary environment. I was also keen on choosing a university that would foster my entrepreneurial skills and provide ample opportunities for growth in that area. Ultimately, I sought a university that balanced academic rigor with opportunities to engage in practical, real-world applications of innovation and entrepreneurship.

As I did more research, I realised that Computing and Law was a program that no other university had, and it was where I had the most flexibility to pivot; I could go into the legal tech industry, become a lawyer, go into the tech industry, or if I so desired, apply both the legal knowledge and computing knowledge in my own startup.

Further, as I conducted more research into the culture at SMU, I realised the importance of being able to think on my feet and voice my opinions, which SMU strongly values. Through its smaller, intimate classes, and the compulsory class participation components in most modules, I thought it would be a good opportunity for me to develop my skills.

Overall, I am glad that I chose to pursue my undergraduate studies at SMU because so many opportunities have come up since matriculation.

What is your 2nd major and why did you choose this particular 2nd major?

My individualized second major is in Innovation & Psychology, a major that I crafted on my own with the College of Integrative Studies. Founding an international not-for-profit organization, Future Lawyers, at the age of 16 ignited my passion for the start-up ecosystem. As I delved deeper into this field and interned at a venture studio with GII during my first summer in college, I realized the importance of understanding human psychology—not just in market research but also in fostering team morale and creating environments that support growth and innovation. This inspired me to create a second major that integrates key aspects of both entrepreneurship and psychology, providing a comprehensive understanding of how these fields interact.

Further, before university, I explored various industries and struggled to settle on a specific academic focus. When CIS introduced the individualized second major option, I saw it as the perfect opportunity to combine my diverse interests into a tailored second major. This program has allowed me to pursue a custom path, supported by a faculty advisor, and apply my learnings to real-world challenges in innovation and human behavior.

However, as I have continued to learn more about the industry, attend more events and networked with more industry advisors, I have pivoted my focus of my Innovation and Psychology major to focus on how to better nurture an entrepreneurial mindset among youth instead, especially in the fast evolving world.

What advice would you give to prospective students who are thinking of applying to SMU? 

Do not underestimate what you are capable of, if your first instinct is “I wish I was good enough to do that or apply for that”, do it anyways and try. Your time in university is for exploration to find what you like or dislike and what you are good at and what you are not good at.