There are moments in life that gently absorb themselves into your soul — my final day in Singapore was one of them. As I walked through Gardens by the Bay, sharing quiet, meaningful moments with friends who had become like family, I felt a tender mix of gratitude and sadness settle in my chest. The cityscape glittered behind us, the Supertrees stood tall like silent guardians of our memories, and for a moment, time slowed down.
This final day wasn’t about sightseeing or checking places off a list. It was about bonding — real, soul-stirring bonding. The kind where silence isn’t awkward, where laughter echoes a little louder, and where each word shared carries the weight of meaning. It was a day for heart-to-hearts, for soaking in each other’s presence one last time before the distance sets in. You see, life is dynamic and unpredictable but I believe every event, place, and person you encounter adds meaning to the dynamics of life. I cannot right now say how my decision to study management and abroad has changed my life, but hey, not to jump over the boat, it is a story for my final reflection. Bianca, Estrella, and Thida that I normally hangout with, really pulled me out of my room most days. They are amazing.
Singapore gave me more than just beautiful views and world-class experiences — it gave me purpose. And that purpose was penetrating the market of China and being a start up business tycoon, thinking global and acting local. I began my internship right after I returned home, and my very first project challenged me on a deeply personal level: to define what “doing good” means for corporations in Asia, and how that differs from corporate responsibility in the United States.
It’s fascinating. In Asia, doing good often flows from a sense of community and long-term harmony. It’s about legacy, family, and sustainable alignment with societal values. In the U.S., the focus often leans toward innovation, measurable social impact, and stakeholder benefit. Neither is better than the other — just different expressions of care. That insight has reshaped how I view leadership and the kind of work I want to do in the world.
One of the highlights of my time here was visiting Universal Studios Singapore. I felt like a child again — wide-eyed, excited, and completely immersed. I joined the Despicable Me transformation activity where we turned into minions, explored the magical castle of Shrek, experienced the intensity of Transformers, and stepped into the grandeur of Ancient Egypt. Every ride, every moment was pure joy.
But what made that day unforgettable wasn’t just the thrills — it was the person beside me. I spent the entire experience with Thida, a generous and serviceable young lady I met during my study abroad. In Thida, I found a quiet strength and selflessness that reminded me of the kind of friend everyone deserves. Her presence made every laugh a little louder, every moment a little warmer. We didn’t just share rides — we shared stories, laughter, and a sense of togetherness that made that day one of the best.
As I sat quietly later that evening, watching the lights of Marina Bay dance on the water, I realized I wasn’t just leaving a city — I was leaving a version of myself that had grown and bloomed here. Singapore has been a chapter of discovery, connection, and reflection.
As I board my flight, I take with me more than souvenirs. I carry newfound purpose, deeper friendships, and a heart that’s been expanded by every moment. And as the city fades beneath the clouds, I whisper a quiet feedback: I had a good time Singaporean.
