What Does It Take To Be An SMU Scholar?

Today, we catch up with Ricky, who is currently our intern at SagePaths. He is a Year One Accounting student at the Singapore Management University (SMU) and he received the Lee Kong Chian scholarship when applying for the university.

Can you share some difficulties you faced when applying for the scholarship?

I would say the most difficult process of my application was the interview because I have completely no idea what questions will be asked. I prepared lots of questions such as strengths and weaknesses, why I applied for SMU and so on, but during the actual interview process, I was asked what was the difference between the education system in China and Singapore. The panel also asked me why I decided to join so many community services and how I maintained such a high GPA at the same time.

What do they look for in an ideal candidate?

I think they are looking for firstly, someone with a very high GPA. Secondly, they look for students who are heavily involved in community services and different kinds of events and thirdly, they also look at your CCA record, so you need to have an outstanding CCA record, which can be done by participating actively in co-curriculars, competitions and other activities outside of school.

Any pro-tips for students who wish to apply?

Firstly, maintain a high GPA because that’s what they’re looking for, and secondly, you need to have as I said, lots of community service records. Finally, try to have some leadership role, such as being the sub-committee member in a school club, as leadership qualities are what the panel hope to see in an ideal candidate apart from an outstanding CCA record. These experiences and leadership titles will help you stand a higher chance in getting these kinds of scholarships.