Amelia Shafinaz Azmi Faez, a tenacious student pursuing a Bachelor in Liberal Arts (Honours) at Management and Science University (MSU), shares her extraordinary journey, filled with diverse experiences and invaluable lessons that have shaped her into the person she is today.
Being a student at MSU, Amelia describes it as “an absolute roller coaster ride” that provided her with unique insights and motivated her to discover her career goals. Despite her initial Diploma in Education (TESL) not aligning with her path, MSU served as a platform for invaluable exposure and lessons beyond her expectations. Amelia's learning journey at MSU was, in her words, “one wild and unforgettable adventure.”
The takeaway from her years of study is a profound one: “It's totally okay to be a non-traditional student!” Amelia reflects on her early days at MSU, where she grappled with fitting into the traditional student mold. She encourages others to embrace their true selves, emphasizing, “You don't have to sacrifice who you are just to please others.” In a world that often expects conformity, Amelia's story highlights the beauty of being authentic and learning from mistakes along the way.
One of Amelia's most unforgettable memories during her studies involves an acceptance letter that changed everything. Recounting the moment, she shares, “I'm sitting in class, minding my own business when all of a sudden, I get an email that changes everything. It's the acceptance letter for the United Nations Youth Assembly.” The joyous occasion unfolded in a small class, creating a heartwarming experience with supportive classmates and a proud International Relations lecturer. This achievement became a cherished memory shared with her parents, her biggest cheerleaders.
Amelia's off-campus adventures were not confined to academic triumphs. She recounts a wild ride with friends led by Yana, saying, “We were like a bunch of banshees having the time of our lives. It was absolutely hilarious and unforgettable.” The escapade, filled with laughter, screams, and adrenaline, exemplifies the essence of friendship and the thrill of life's unexpected adventures.
Gratitude permeates Amelia's reflections on her journey. Her parents emerge as the backbone of her achievements, providing unwavering support. She acknowledges the role of her mentor, Professor Datin Dr. Norhisham, stating, “Her effort in nurturing me is a debt I will never be able to repay.” Amelia extends her gratitude to lecturers who have been patient with her, friends who have been supportive, and even her best friend Saif, whom she credits for inspiring her to be her best.
As she delves into her future plans, Amelia reveals her current focus: finishing her Research Project and getting into the colloquium. Despite Research Project not being a core subject for her, she decided to audit it, describing the journey as “an arduous few months.” Her decision to pursue her thesis is driven by her aspiration to do a master's and deepen her knowledge in International Relations, Public Administration, and Foreign Policy. Her eyes are set on prestigious institutions such as Harvard's Kennedy School of Government or Columbia's School of International and Public Affairs, acknowledging that it seems like reaching for the stars, but she aims to give it her best shot.
The anticipation of studying at Columbia University in New York City is both exciting and nerve-wracking for Amelia. Acknowledging the school's Ivy League status and the high-caliber student body, she expresses, “I have high expectations obviously and to be fair I am very nervous of what is to come.” Her preparations for this new chapter include a humorous touch as she plans to pack Indomee and Kurma Ayam paste in her suitcase, bringing a taste of home to ease the transition.
Amelia wraps up her narrative with a heartfelt word of encouragement for juniors: “You are enough. Study smart but have some time for yourself. A little faith in yourself goes a long way and plays a prominent step in achieving your goals and aspirations.” Her message resonates as a beacon of hope for those navigating the challenges of academia, urging them to find a balance between academic rigor and personal well-being.
Amelia Shafinaz's academic odyssey from MSU to Columbia University is a testament to the transformative power of embracing one's true self, navigating unexpected adventures, expressing gratitude, and pursuing ambitious dreams. Her story serves as an inspiration for students embarking on their own educational journeys, encouraging them to embrace the unpredictability and richness that learning brings.
Amelia Shafinaz Azmi Faez, a tenacious student pursuing a Bachelor in Liberal Arts (Honours) at Management and Science University (MSU), shares her extraordinary journey, filled with diverse experiences and invaluable lessons that have shaped her into the person she is today.
Being a student at MSU, Amelia describes it as “an absolute roller coaster ride” that provided her with unique insights and motivated her to discover her career goals. Despite her initial Diploma in Education (TESL) not aligning with her path, MSU served as a platform for invaluable exposure and lessons beyond her expectations. Amelia's learning journey at MSU was, in her words, “one wild and unforgettable adventure.”
The takeaway from her years of study is a profound one: “It's totally okay to be a non-traditional student!” Amelia reflects on her early days at MSU, where she grappled with fitting into the traditional student mold. She encourages others to embrace their true selves, emphasizing, “You don't have to sacrifice who you are just to please others.” In a world that often expects conformity, Amelia's story highlights the beauty of being authentic and learning from mistakes along the way.
One of Amelia's most unforgettable memories during her studies involves an acceptance letter that changed everything. Recounting the moment, she shares, “I'm sitting in class, minding my own business when all of a sudden, I get an email that changes everything. It's the acceptance letter for the United Nations Youth Assembly.” The joyous occasion unfolded in a small class, creating a heartwarming experience with supportive classmates and a proud International Relations lecturer. This achievement became a cherished memory shared with her parents, her biggest cheerleaders.
Amelia's off-campus adventures were not confined to academic triumphs. She recounts a wild ride with friends led by Yana, saying, “We were like a bunch of banshees having the time of our lives. It was absolutely hilarious and unforgettable.” The escapade, filled with laughter, screams, and adrenaline, exemplifies the essence of friendship and the thrill of life's unexpected adventures.
Gratitude permeates Amelia's reflections on her journey. Her parents emerge as the backbone of her achievements, providing unwavering support. She acknowledges the role of her mentor, Professor Datin Dr. Norhisham, stating, “Her effort in nurturing me is a debt I will never be able to repay.” Amelia extends her gratitude to lecturers who have been patient with her, friends who have been supportive, and even her best friend Saif, whom she credits for inspiring her to be her best.
As she delves into her future plans, Amelia reveals her current focus: finishing her Research Project and getting into the colloquium. Despite Research Project not being a core subject for her, she decided to audit it, describing the journey as “an arduous few months.” Her decision to pursue her thesis is driven by her aspiration to do a master's and deepen her knowledge in International Relations, Public Administration, and Foreign Policy. Her eyes are set on prestigious institutions such as Harvard's Kennedy School of Government or Columbia's School of International and Public Affairs, acknowledging that it seems like reaching for the stars, but she aims to give it her best shot.
The anticipation of studying at Columbia University in New York City is both exciting and nerve-wracking for Amelia. Acknowledging the school's Ivy League status and the high-caliber student body, she expresses, “I have high expectations obviously and to be fair I am very nervous of what is to come.” Her preparations for this new chapter include a humorous touch as she plans to pack Indomee and Kurma Ayam paste in her suitcase, bringing a taste of home to ease the transition.
Amelia wraps up her narrative with a heartfelt word of encouragement for juniors: “You are enough. Study smart but have some time for yourself. A little faith in yourself goes a long way and plays a prominent step in achieving your goals and aspirations.” Her message resonates as a beacon of hope for those navigating the challenges of academia, urging them to find a balance between academic rigor and personal well-being.
Amelia Shafinaz's academic odyssey from MSU to Columbia University is a testament to the transformative power of embracing one's true self, navigating unexpected adventures, expressing gratitude, and pursuing ambitious dreams. Her story serves as an inspiration for students embarking on their own educational journeys, encouraging them to embrace the unpredictability and richness that learning brings.