Alumni Testimonials

Alvin Tan, MSc (International Relations), Singapore

“The Masters in International Relations programme at RSIS truly exemplifies the importance of learning, unlearning and relearning. The post-graduate programme offers a comprehensive coverage of key international relations topics taught by renowned and respected lecturers from across the world. Throughout my one year at RSIS, I found myself constantly engaged and challenged by my lecturers who equipped my classmates and I with the necessary knowledge and then encouraged analytical independence by rewarding fresh perspectives backed by intellectually rigorous research. As a result, many members of my cohort are now able to approach today’s international events with an open mind and to analyze them from a fresh yet informed perspective. I particularly enjoyed RSIS’s emphasis on peer learning through class discussions and group projects, and its promotion of a well-rounded campus life with numerous social activities organized for students. I am thankful to the helpful and approachable RSIS staff, and would whole-heartedly recommend this programme to anyone interested in pursuing a post-graduate programme in International Relations.”

Pia McKay, MSc (International Relations), New Zealand
“I have had the opportunity to study toward and MSc in International Relations at the Rajaratnam School of International Studies for the 2009/2010 academic year. One of the strengths of the RSIS environment has been the constant exposure to new thoughts and ideas through seminars and workshops given by influential thinkers within academia, policy and intelligence. As well as being able to attend seminars on topics within their specific focus, students are encouraged to attend seminars, conferences and workshops spanning a huge range of other topics, – from the Responsibility to Protect doctrine, to U.S-Asia relations under the Obama Administration. As a student, this exposure to ideas outside of my specific focus broadened my knowledge, and helped to keep me interested and engaged during the year. Another important strength of the school is its position on the interface between academia and policy. RSIS enables students to participate in an environment that spans the academic and professional spheres of International Studies.”

Joeri Vos, MSc (Asian Studies), Netherlands
“I’m very happy that I had the opportunity to study in Singapore at RSIS. RSIS offers an inspiring academic environment combined with high-quality education. The professors at RSIS are experts in their respective fields and are always willing to assist students. What I especially enjoyed was that professors did not only rely on readings and lectures, but also encouraged discussion and simulation exercises. Before I came to Singapore I had hardly any knowledge of the Asian region, but after enrolling in the Asian Studies program I’ve gained a lot of knowledge on how individual countries in Asia deal with both domestic and foreign issues and how they cope with global pressures. I’ve learned to take a more theoretical approach when analyzing issues and through contact with students and teachers I have learned to appreciate different perspectives on these issues. What has made this year particularly memorable was the opportunity to meet many different people from all over the world. I have made lots of new friends during my time here and I will always cherish the memories I have. All in all, studying at RSIS has been a rewarding and unforgettable experience.”

Kevin John McQueen, MSc (Asian Studies), United Kingdom
“My time at RSIS proved to be a very enjoyable year for me for several reasons. Without doubt it was challenging, but at the same time rewarding. The standard of teaching was excellent, the readings were up-to-date and informative, and the analysis insightful and profoundly stimulating. Studying at RSIS also helped me gain greater knowledge and understanding of the region in general, which is particularly relevant to my career as a journalist in Hong Kong. I also appreciated some of the excellent speakers that we were privileged to hear over the past year, such as Professor Stephen Walt, Professor Vinod Aggarwal, Dr Ashley J Tellis, and Mr Nik Gowing from the BBC. But what made the year particularly memorable for me was the company of a great bunch of students and the opportunity to meet people from all over the world. Some great friendships were made and since I left Singapore, I have really missed them!”

Pan Rongfang, MSc (International Political Economy), China
“After years of working in multinational corporations, I decided to enrol in RSIS’ MSc Programme in International Political Economy. It turns out that studying at RSIS is one of the most enlightening and rewarding experiences that I have ever had. The intense programme allows students to develop critical thinking and rigorous analysis through a wide range of lectures, seminars, presentations, case studies, term papers and interactive discussions. It keeps pace with the real world of international affairs, and at the same time, offers theoretical concepts as well as research methods. The professors are not only professional but also approachable and extremely helpful. I have truly enjoyed my time at RSIS. I know I had made the right decision.”

Jenna Park Ji Hyun, MSc (International Political Economy), South Korea
“Studying in RSIS was truly an eye-opening experience for me and it has greatly contributed to broadening my perspectives on international issues. The courses and the degree of academic effort they require are daunting indeed, but they play a great role in building up your quality as an international character in the globalized community today. In addition, studying in one of the most lively multi-ethnic countries in Asia along with fellow students and staff from diverse cultural and personal backgrounds was another major factor that made me cherish the RSIS experience even more. I can confidently say that my time in RSIS has left me with priceless lessons and unforgettable memories.”

Edwin San, MSc (Strategic Studies), Singapore
“I was privileged and fortunate to have been awarded a Legal Service Commission Scholarship to read for the MSc (Strategic Studies) at the RSIS. The MSc (SS) is a multi-disciplinary programme, drawing heavily upon the social sciences, in particular the disciplines of international relations, history, political science and law. Undoubtedly, it was academically rigorous and challenging. However, under the expert tutelage and firm guidance of the RSIS professors, we slowly came to grips with the demands presented by the required book reviews, presentations, term papers and of course, examinations. In the spirit of RSIS’s motto to “ponder the improbable”, we were constantly challenged by our professors to re-think and re-assess our preconceptions and underlying assumptions, thus making for lively and often memorable class discussions. The administration support, such as the online academic journals and library resources, were also excellent. The diverse student enrolment also allowed for good interaction, cultural exchanges and forging of friendships among like-minded persons. Looking back, I can only express my joy and satisfaction at having pursued the MSc (SS) programme at RSIS and would, without any hesitation, recommend the same to any person so interested in security studies.”

Yeap Su Yin, MSc (Strategic Studies), Malaysia
“My mid-career decision to pursue a Masters degree at RSIS turned out to have been an excellent one for me. I found RSIS to be fast-paced and focused, with a first-class faculty that was extremely helpful and approachable. I was provided with a challenging and stimulating academic environment, with a strong practical foundation. My fellow students, who provided a good sounding board when discussing various issues, enhanced the learning environment. Further, there were plenty of fun-filled activities that promoted the interaction among faculty and students. All in all, I feel fortunate to have been a part of RSIS. I finished the year with a good academic framework, fond memories of my time at RSIS and a diary full of friends. I could not have asked for anything more from a Masters programme.”