Celebrating Unconditional Love with the Chang Family
Adeline Lai (EMBA 2019)
Donor - SMU Alumni Silver Jubilee Fund, Leave Your Mark 2023, and more
How has your SMU experience shaped your personal and professional life?
Adeline: I would consider my SMU experience as truly transformative. It was the entire experience of being challenged to think critically, communicate confidently, and engage deeply with the world around me. SMU’s interactive, seminar-style classes helped me find my voice — something I carry with me every day, whether I’m at work, with my family, or volunteering in the community. Personally, the friendships formed have lasted well beyond graduation. Professionally, the strong emphasis on real-world applications gave me a solid foundation to adapt and grow in my career.
What motivates you to give back to your alma mater?
Adeline: It feels very natural to give back to a place that gave me so much. SMU played such a big role in shaping who I am today. When I see how the university continues to innovate and support its students, I feel proud to be part of that journey. Volunteering and donating are my small ways of paying it forward — to help open doors for others the way they were opened for me. Most importantly, staying involved keeps me connected to the energy and ideas of the next generation, which is always inspiring.
How does it feel to see your children follow in your footsteps at SMU?
Adeline: Extremely heartwarming. I never imagined that one day, I’d be walking through campus not just as an alumna, but as a proud SMU mum! Watching Victoria and Nicholas grow through their own SMU journeys, making friends, finding their passions, and navigating life in their own unique ways — it brings everything full circle. It brings me a quiet joy to see them in an environment that fosters growth, curiosity, and a strong sense of community.
Nicholas Chang (LKCSB Year 3)
What made you decide to pursue your studies at SMU?
Nicholas: I was drawn to the flexible schedule and the ability to plan my modules around the rest of my life — whether it’s hobbies, side gigs, or spending time with people I care about. The seminar-style classes also appealed to me. My mom recommended SMU to me because she thought it would suit my character — and she was right.
How has your mum’s involvement with SMU influenced you?
Nicholas: Her involvement at SMU introduced me to a vibrant community — people who are more than just connections, but friends. I saw how passionate she was about giving back, and it inspired me to seek out my own ways to contribute. Maybe that’s why I take on many roles in excos of student clubs and community service projects.
Describe your mum in three words.
Nicholas: Inspiring. Driven. Kind.
What would you like to say to your mum this Mother’s Day?
Nicholas: I am very ambitious and sometimes take on more than I can handle. Without your support and encouragement, I wouldn’t have achieved what I have. You’ve helped me dare to try, persevere, and grow. Thank you for always being there — comforting me, cheering me on, and being honest when I need it most. Happy Mother’s Day ❤️
Victoria Chang (BBM 2024)
Donor - Leave Your Mark 2024
Looking back on your time at SMU, what are the most memorable experiences that shaped your growth, both academically and personally?
Victoria: One of the most memorable experiences was serving in BONDUE’s EXCO. It taught me a lot about myself, my strengths, and how I work with others. Being involved in events like BCamp, Slightly Scarlet, the Networking Forum, and Welfare Drives pushed me out of my comfort zone and showed me how much we could do not just for our peers and alumni, but also for the wider community. Navigating challenges such as ever-changing COVID-19 regulations also gave me the chance to try new formats and ideas.
Academically, the COVID semester stood out. Online learning made it harder to connect with groupmates and professors, but it taught me to take greater responsibility for my studies and be proactive in communication. I really appreciate how my professors being so supportive and understanding during the challenging time, making the transition to the online semester a lot easier, and it made me look forward to returning to campus and reconnecting in person.
What motivated you to contribute your first gift to SMU when you graduated in 2024?
Victoria: After being in SMU for 5 years, I have received much from my professors and my peers and would like to give back to the community. Seeing how the monetary contributions will go to helping the bursary funds and the less fortunate made me want to help in their learning as well, and to give others the chance to experience the same SMU life that I did!
Describe your mum in three words.
Victoria: Inspiring. Compassionate. Dependable.
What would you like to say to your mum this Mother’s Day?
Victoria: Thank you for encouraging me to step out of my comfort zone over my time at SMU! From sharing about your own experiences at SMU to allowing me the space to learn and grow in my own way and forge my own path forward, thank you for giving me this opportunity! Especially when I struggled with my weaker modules and when I need ideas for projects, you were always there to guide me through it and even teach me the concepts and share your old notes with me, I would never have been able to complete my degree and participate in as many activities without you!
