Singapore Management University
I think the key difference about the culture is the language, as we speak only English and Mandarin back in Singapore. But I am glad with the help from friends and our travels, we have picked up sufficient Spanish to travel around.
I am thankful the Universidad del Pacifico has given me this opportunity to have a student exchange on campus. It has been one of the best things that happened, to be able to experience a whole new education system in such a prestigious university across the other side of the globe.
I really could not have asked for more; it has been a perfect experience! This has been made better by the really welcoming students and friends here in Peru.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND my accommodation, located at Av. Ricardo Tizon y Bueno 787, Jesus Maria.
My host mum, Ms Rosa Angeles, goes the extra mile to take care of us. She would frequently invite us to celebrations held at her place and cook meals for us.
She treats us like her own children. If anyone wants a positive experience living together with a Peruvian family, this would be the perfect choice!
This is the most defining part of my exchange journey. My buddy, Christina Wong, has been very welcome and hospitable during our stay here in Peru. She has assisted us in many ways, from the choosing of our courses on day one to showing us the way things work around Lima.
She is extremely thoughtful as she would care for even our small needs; for instance – precautions to take when going around, showing us how to visit a money exchange, teaching us Spanish and also advising on how we can enjoy student discounts during our travels. These are small things which had had a positive impact on our stay here.
She has gone the extra mile by having her family host us, multiple times, and brought us out for meals and experience the local culinary scene. Her family treats us like their own.
I think Christina has really been a great part of our exchange journey here in Peru. If there was to be a best buddy award, it would definitely go to her, without a doubt.
Being in Lima, Peru, it was an eye-opening experience for us as it is so different culturally to begin with. For one, speaking Spanish was something foreign to us, but we are glad we had learnt enough to get by each day thus far.
The nightlife here in Lima is extremely vibrant, coupled with the top-notched culinary options, it is the perfect combination.
We have made so many friends during this exchange journey, both Peruvians and fellow exchange students.
We also have organized trips together and travelled together to various attractions. (Eg. Huaraz, Máncora)
I recommend to take these courses with these professors:
All the professors in UP are very knowledgeable in their field of expertise. I particularly enjoy how lessons are usually very interactive and promotes a 2 way conversation. And outside of the classroom, the professors are just like a friend.
In addition, as personal experience, I think the key is to come with an open mind.
Most people have a misconception that Peru, or Latin America in general is a dangerous place. However, that is untrue. In fact, I feel it is such a beautiful place. So let’s all work together and spread the word about how wonderful this place is!
If you have any comment or question please write to my e-mail:
gerald.gan.2014@economics.smu.edu.sg
