SIM Global Education

HE was disappointed when his O-level results meant he was not eligible for junior college (JC).

But Shawn Goh, 19, is now a second-year SIM Global Education student, pursuing a psychology degree, to be awarded by the University at Buffalo (UB), The State University of New York.

With a Grade Point Average of 3.75 (out of a maximum of 4.0), he is on par with classmates who had gone through JC or polytechnic.

He said O-level entry students need not worry about losing out because the programme does not require prior knowledge.

"As long as you put in effort, you can achieve your desired results."

Shawn opted for the three-year psychology degree programme after his O levels, which will prepare him for a job as a clinical psychologist.

The intensive programme operates on a tri-semester basis (summer-fall-spring). This means that, unlike students in the Buffalo Campus programme, all the students here take courses even during the summer semester, from May to August.

The accelerated programme lets Shawn graduate with a degree two years ahead of those who take the junior college route and three years ahead of polytechnic students.

He said: "Our breaks are short, but the intensity of the programme gives us a good basic foundation."

He said he also has the option of taking a selection of electives because the programme is based on the US liberal arts system. Some electives he has taken include nutrition, sociology, music and computer science.

Most of the university's lecturers are from the US. Class participation counts for 10 to 20 per cent of the grades.

Shawn said: "I prefer the American system because it encourages you to voice your thoughts. The Asian practice of just listening in class is too restrictive."

Is he one of the more enthusiastic participants in class?

He said: "No, I'm still adapting! But the important thing is that I'm trying."

Shawn will take a break from his programme this month to serve his National Service.