NUS Economics Summer Camp : June 2018

The 2018 NUS Economics summer camp commenced on the 25th of June and went on for one week. Nearly 100 Commerce students from across Asia took part in this years’ camp.

Throughout the program, we were ex-posed to many different aspects of Economics. Renowned professors from universities across the world, spoke to us about Trade Services, Artificial Intelligence, Environmental Economics, Housing Economics, Banking and Finance and a range of other topics. We were also introduced to the fascinating subject area of “Behavioural Economics” which studies the effects of psychological and cognitive factors on the economic decisions of individuals and institutions. This was a new field for us. Nevertheless, we found it thoroughly interest-ing.

All these lectures led to the final project proposal which we had to create in groups. This was when we had to mingle with delegates from other countries and come to a final con-clusion on our business plan. This was not initially easy as each and every delegate had their own opinion on what they wanted to do. However, during the course of the week, each and every group compromised and came up with some very interesting business plans. Finally, Minupa and his group managed to win the award for the best business plan.

We also had the privilege of visiting The Singapore Stock Exchange as well as the Monetary Authority of Singapore. The general public are restricted entry to certain areas of these highly protected buildings, hence, it was indeed a rare opportunity for us to see these government offices.

This year’s Summer Camp Program was truly an enriching educational experience. How-ever, we greatly enjoyed the opportunity of visiting a world class university of this caliber. Personally I thoroughly enjoyed the “university life” we were exposed to, over this week. From long walks across the lush campus grounds, to 4 massive food courts and multiple residence halls, this was an experience like no other (especially trying to find your way through a 350-acre campus site).

Shevanthi, Shenuki, Eashtha, Inan, Basura, Upek, Theruni, Dilhara, Anuththara, Minupa and I were able to take part in the program this year and we believe that this further en-hanced our knowledge in the field of Commerce. We would like to thank Ms Tharange and Ms Dimanthi for guiding and supporting us during our memorable visit to the NUS.

This summer camp certainly broadens your views on Economics and the exposure would serve each of us greatly when it is time for us to travel overseas for our University studies. Therefore, I would recommend all Business and Economics students to go to the 2019 summer camp and experience this.

By Janith Weerasinghe - 11B