Singapore

Singapore: Student Activities

There are many opportunities to participate in a variety of activities. Dorms have hall activities that range from playing sports to participating in a hall play. Local students are enthusiastic participants in these activities. While they are an excellent way for EAP students to integrate themselves into the local community, these activities are not mandatory.

In addition, there are a large number of clubs for recreational, religious, and cultural activities. There are travel clubs, water sports clubs, Tai Chi clubs, chess clubs, a variety of language clubs, etc. The University Symphony accepts qualified students. Clearly there is no lack of opportunity to be active.

The local population of Singapore also celebrates a number of festivals and events. Chinese, Hindu and Muslim celebrations follow a lunar calendar, so dates vary from year to year.

In September, the Festival of the Hungry Ghosts commemorates the release of the souls of the dead for feasting and entertainment on earth. Chinese operas are performed for them and food is offered; the ghosts eat the spirit of the food but thoughtfully leave the substance for the mortal celebrants.
During Chinese New Year, in January or February, Singaporeans celebrate with dragon dances and parades. Chinatown is lit up and there are fireworks and night markets.
During Ramadan, food stalls are set up in the evening in the Arab district, near the Sultan Mosque.
In April or May, Vesak Day celebrates Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and death, and is marked by the release of caged birds to symbolize the setting free of captive souls.
The Dragon Boat Festival, held in May or June, commemorates the death of a Chinese saint who drowned himself as a protest against government corruption. It is celebrated with boat races across Marina Bay.

A list of local festivals can be found at Singapore.com.

For music lovers, there are shows at the Esplanade Theater by the Bay, which are usually only about half the price one would typically pay in the U.S. For jazz enthusiasts, students should look into the monthly jazz concerts at the Chijmes, which are usually held every third Sunday of the month.

Get Involved!

Participating in extracurricular cultural and social activities while on EAP is an excellent way to meet people, improve your language skills, and integrate more fully into the community.

Join clubs, sports, musical, theater, or arts groups; volunteer at local organizations, attend lectures and receptions held in academic and community circles, and get the most out of your time abroad!

Detailed information from the Student's Guide

More detailed information from the Student's Guide is available below in PDF format

Student Activities