Why Study in Singapore? Lessons from TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew
More Than a Degree
Shou Zi Chew speaking at Nanyang Technological University’s 2026 doctoral commencement ceremony. Photo: CNA
When students think about studying abroad, they often focus on university rankings, academic programmes, career prospects and qualifications. While these factors are important, there is another question worth asking:
What does studying in a different country truly change?
At Nanyang Technological University’s recent doctoral commencement ceremony, TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew shared a reflection that resonated with students and educators alike. Rather than speaking about career achievements or business success, he described education as “a lifelong passport.”
His message serves as a timely reminder that education is about much more than earning a qualification. It is about developing the confidence to explore unfamiliar environments, embrace new perspectives and prepare for opportunities that extend beyond the classroom.
From a Small Neighbourhood to the Global Stage
Shou Zi Chew, Chief Executive Officer of TikTok. Photo: The Wall Street Journal
Today, Shou Zi Chew is recognised globally as the Chief Executive Officer of TikTok. Before leading one of the world’s largest technology platforms, he studied Economics at University College London, earned an MBA from Harvard Business School, and built his career through organisations including Goldman Sachs, DST Global and Xiaomi.
Yet during his commencement speech, he chose not to focus on these milestones.
Instead, he reflected on growing up in Yio Chu Kang, where his world initially extended little beyond his own neighbourhood. Entering Hwa Chong Institution after his Primary School Leaving Examination marked more than a change of school. It exposed him to a new environment, different people and fresh perspectives that expanded the way he understood the world.
Although the journey from Yio Chu Kang to Bukit Timah was geographically short, it represented an important personal milestone. It demonstrated how stepping outside a familiar environment can shape confidence, curiosity and ambition.
Why Studying in Singapore Is About More Than Academics
For many international students, this message reflects one of the greatest strengths of studying in Singapore.
Singapore has established itself as one of Asia’s leading education hubs, bringing together students, educators and professionals from around the world. While the country is relatively small in size, its education system is recognised internationally for its emphasis on academic excellence, innovation, multiculturalism and global connectivity.
Studying in Singapore is therefore about more than preparing for examinations. It is an opportunity to experience different perspectives, communicate across cultures and develop the adaptability needed to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world.
Students quickly discover that learning extends beyond textbooks. They participate in classroom discussions, collaborate with classmates from different cultural backgrounds and learn to think critically about real-world challenges. These experiences help build skills that remain valuable long after graduation.
The Value of Stepping Beyond Your Comfort Zone
For many international students, moving to Singapore is the first time they have lived independently in a new country.
This transition brings both opportunities and challenges.
Students learn to communicate confidently in English, manage their studies independently and adapt to a new academic environment. At the same time, they begin developing qualities that employers increasingly value, including resilience, problem-solving, cross-cultural communication and independence.
While qualifications remain important, these personal and professional skills often become equally valuable as students prepare for university and future careers.
Education Shapes More Than Academic Results
Shou Zi Chew, Chief Executive Officer of TikTok. Photo: The Straits Times.
One of the most powerful messages from Shou Zi Chew’s speech is that the impact of education is often gradual.
A new school, a different learning environment or the decision to study overseas may seem like small steps at the time. However, these experiences often influence how students think, solve problems and view their future.
Education does not simply provide knowledge. It helps students develop confidence, broaden their perspectives and recognise opportunities they may never have previously imagined.
For many international students, this transformation begins the moment they choose to study in Singapore.
Preparing Students for a Global Future
At Hanbridge Institute, we have witnessed this journey through many of our international students.
Some arrive with limited confidence in English. Others are unfamiliar with Singapore’s education system or uncertain about living independently for the first time.
Over time, they become more confident communicators, active classroom participants and independent learners. They begin planning their academic pathways with greater clarity while developing the confidence to pursue opportunities both in Singapore and internationally.
Whether students are preparing for the AEIS, progressing through a preparatory programme, or pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies, education should do more than help them achieve academic success. It should prepare them to adapt, contribute and thrive in a rapidly changing global environment.
Education Is a Lifelong Passport
Shou Zi Chew’s speech reminds us that education is rarely defined by a single examination, qualification or career milestone.
Instead, it is shaped by the experiences that encourage us to step beyond familiar surroundings, embrace new perspectives and continue learning throughout our lives.
For international students, choosing to study in Singapore is about much more than earning a qualification. It is about developing the confidence, adaptability and global outlook needed to succeed in an increasingly connected world.
As Shou Zi Chew reflected, education is a lifelong passport. Perhaps its greatest value is not where it takes us academically, but how it prepares us to navigate the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.