By Melissa Heng

A DECADE ago, while studying at Cambridge University, I was assigned shared accommodation with a group of international graduate students comprising an Egyptian, a Welshman, an African-American, a Jewish-Canadian and an Indian.

Every weekend, we would set up our own 'round-table' discussion on international affairs. Inevitably, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, racial politics and the issue of sponsored terrorism would surface, leading to strenuous debates and mock negotiations for settlements.

I, therefore, received two types of education at Cambridge. The first was a formal, rigorous and structured programme leading to a Master of Philosophy. The second was informal and unstructured, but no less rigorous a study in international and cross-cultural relations. The former gave me a prestigious qualification. The latter opened my eyes to the realities of war, conflict and prejudice that exist in the world, seen and experienced directly by my housemates.

Both types of education were invaluable, but if I were to be forced to pick just one, I have no illusions as to which I would give up: my formal degree. You see, certain types of education will get you through school and land you a job, while others will see you through for life.

As a journalist, I have heard, read and, on numerous occasions, even written on matters that do not touch me personally - crime, terrorism, racism, among others.

Previously, I had understood those topics in largely theoretical terms as ideas and ideals.

However, at Cambridge I had the privilege of understanding what all these terms mean on a personal level. For example, in the way my Arab and Jewish friends view the conflict in the Middle East.

My year in Cambridge gave me the depth of perspective that four years at the national university here did not.

Away from Singapore, I was truly part of a global village where I could engage the world intellectually, socially and, yes, even politically - I have been to several demonstrations and rallies in London, which, if nothing else, were extremely insightful experiences.

And, no, I don't have well-to-do parents, nor did I have generous sponsors. I worked and saved for three full years before putting every cent I had in the bank into a single year at Cambridge.

Was it worth it?

Yes, because a well-rounded, out-of classroom education in an environment out of my comfort

zone is an invaluable one. So, if you have the chance to work, study, travel, or live for a spell abroad, go. There's nothing like a sojourn overseas to truly open your mind.

What's education anyway, if not to develop an open mind?

Melissa Heng is a veteran journalist and editor. She lectures on journalism and helms her own editorial consulting firm, My Blue Ink.

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