Gini Wong, A-REIT Study Award and de Suantio Scholarship Recipient

I enjoy SMU’s interactive pedagogy and seminar-style learning. Lessons are not simply passive one-way lectures. Rather, they involve the active participation of students. Through this, I can reflect and think deeper about the topics being taught. With a vibrant student life and numerous co-curricular activities and community service projects, every student has the opportunity to make the most out of his or her university life. 

Besides focusing on academic pursuits, I make time to participate in community service and pro bono work. Together with some friends, we have initiated our community service project called “Project Kalves”, teaching underprivileged children swimming. Through this project, we hope to spread the message that everyone should be given the chance to learn practical life skills such as swimming. As a law student, I also have the opportunity to do pro bono work such as interning with the Law Society Pro Bono Services and participating in the University Court Friends Programme by the State Court. 
 
I am immensely grateful to our donors, and honoured to receive this gift of financial aid. Being a financial aid recipient makes me more appreciative of the value of giving back to the community and paying it forward. Without a doubt, this gift enables me to make more meaningful use of my time at SMU. My family and I worry less about finances and can spend more quality time together. Even when I stumble upon challenges, I am aware that many are supporting me and rooting for me. 

Gini Wong, LLB, A-REIT Study Award 2020 and de Suantio Scholarship 2019