At SMU, graduation requires more than academic achievement. Undergraduates must complete mandatory community service hours—a requirement that transforms education into social responsibility. For Shannon, this obligation has become a catalyst for meaningful change. Rather than viewing service hours as another box to tick, she has embraced the chance to grow whilst contributing to society. Finding Her Own Path At the SMU Arts Fest. Picture taken by Celest Chong. Undergrads must seek out their own volunteer roles, encouraging initiative and allowing them to pursue causes that genuinely resonate. Shannon initially worked with elderly residents, helping them navigate the digital world. She spent hours teaching seniors to use smartphones, install applications, and access online services—work that proved both challenging and rewarding as she witnessed technology bridging generational gaps. Currently, Shannon provides free tuition to underprivileged children, combining her academic strengt...