At the start of the academic year, the ESSEC Asia-Pacific Student Council organized an unforgettable excursion to Tioman Island, Malaysia, where ESSEC’s Global Bachelor of Business Administration (GBBA) program’s second-year students welcomed first-year students through a special induction trip. Spanning from 27 to 28 September 2024, this student-led initiative was more than just a fun getaway—it offered a unique opportunity for personal development, cultural exploration, and team-building, bringing together both returning and new students as they embarked on their ESSEC journey in Singapore.

Chuang Shao Chun, a second-year GBBA student at ESSEC Asia-Pacific and a member of the Student Council, reflects on this impactful experience that strengthened bonds, fostered deeper connections, and enriched the overall ESSEC community.

Read on to discover how this event helped shape the ESSEC experience and the invaluable lessons it offered to everyone involved.

Could You Share More About This Experience, And How Did It Come About?

The Tioman Island excursion was born from a longstanding tradition at ESSEC Asia-Pacific, where second-year students guide first-year students on an induction trip. This initiative reflects ESSEC’s core values—academic excellence, humanism, and a holistic approach to personal development. While academic success is key, ESSEC also emphasizes developing well-rounded individuals, and these excursions play an important role in helping students step outside their comfort zones, broaden their horizons, and gain new perspectives.

Organized by the Student Council, we hoped that the Tioman Island trip could provide an opportunity for second-year and first-year students to connect in a more relaxed, informal setting for first-year students in particular, it offered a chance to ease their transition into the community—bonding over shared experiences, engaging in conversations beyond academics, and forming meaningful friendships. Given ESSEC’s diverse student body, initiatives like this are essential for fostering a sense of belonging and building a supportive, inclusive community.

Were There Any Standout Moments From The Trips?

The Tioman Island excursion was filled with unforgettable moments, each one leaving students with lasting memories. One standout highlight was the fire show on the beach, where local performers put on an incredible display of fire dancing. The flames lit up the night as they spun and twirled, captivating the audience and creating a magical atmosphere against the ocean’s backdrop. This was a perfect opportunity for students to mingle, relax, and enjoy the vibrant, fun-filled energy of the evening.

Another unforgettable experience was the snorkeling trip, during which students had the rare opportunity to spot dolphins swimming gracefully around the boat. With crystal-clear skies, calm waters, and playful dolphins, the experience was serene and awe-inspiring—one of the most magical moments of the trip.

Overall What Was Your Reflection About This Event?

As a member of the Student Council, organizing this student-led project was an enriching and empowering experience. It pushed us to be independent, resourceful, and creative. While the Academic Affairs team provided guidance, it was ultimately up to the Student Council to create an unforgettable experience for the first-year students, just as our seniors had done for us.

Looking back, the trip was a pivotal moment in my own journey in Singapore. It allowed me to bond with my cohort, deepen friendships, and grow in ways I hadn’t expected. I hope we were able to pass on that sense of connection and personal growth to our juniors, ensuring that they too had a memorable start to their ESSEC journey.