Ricky Low Jun Xiang

What is one lesson from your A-Level days that is still relevant today?

One lesson that has carried over from my A-Levels is the importance of understanding statistics. Many of the concepts I encountered, such as hypothesis testing and normal distribution, are still very relevant to my studies in finance today. On a personal level, the resilience and determination I developed during A-Levels continue to serve me well. The A-Level experience set a benchmark for the rigour required in university, and I’ve learned to adjust my bandwidth to sustain stamina and excel across academics and extracurriculars.

What is your favourite hangout spot/place to chill after a long day of classes?

After a long day, I usually head back to the library since it’s air-conditioned and has charging ports. However, when I’m meeting friends from other schools, we often go to Campus Green, where we sit down with food and chat. It’s a simple but relaxing spot, and it always gives off good vibes.

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

If you’re passionate about business or fields like finance, marketing, or information systems, I strongly encourage you to apply to SMU. There’s a growing trend of SMU graduates taking on prominent roles in corporate sectors, something I’ve witnessed both through personal anecdotes and my own experiences.

Don’t be discouraged by the fact that SMU may not rank among the top universities in the world. That’s largely because we don’t offer STEM disciplines like medicine, engineering, or math, which are typically required for global rankings. However, SMU’s strength lies in its business, law, social sciences, and accountancy programs, and I believe our business school is among the best in the world.

SMU provides an excellent environment to build the confidence and skills you need for your professional career. If your goal is to graduate with strong prospects in Singapore’s financial hub or beyond, SMU will prepare you well. With the vast opportunities offered here, you’ll gain a competitive advantage in the workplace.