How to Make the Most of Virtual Open Days

15 years old, Grade 10

Sunway International School (SIS)

“I believe science is a study that answers countless questions prompted by my curiosity.”

Describe yourself in three words. Enthusiastic, optimistic, stubborn.

What is your favourite subject and why? My favourite subject is science because science allows me to experience various facets in my life. I could always apply my science knowledge in real life. I believe science is a study that answers countless questions prompted by my curiosity.

What kinds of extracurricular activities do you do and why? Currently, I am leading a club named ‘SHEEP’ (Small Hands Eliminating Endless Problems) that allows me to do volunteer work in society. Moreover, I am a member of the High School Student Council, which allows me to build numerous skills, such as leadership, teamwork, and more.

What opportunities has your school given you that you would not have had otherwise? SIS has given me an opportunity to find my interest and the field that I want to study in the future. In Grade 8, I participated in the Middle School Science Fair and won an Engineering Award. This event had provoked my enthusiasm in the study of science, and also gave me an unforgettable memory. Additionally, I was able to gain lots of information to plan my future university pathway with SIS guidance and help.

If you could change one thing about being a student at your school, what would it be? If I could change one thing about being a student at my school, I would want all the students to be able to participate in the classes and have confidence in themselves.

Describe your school in three words. Spirited, reliable, inspiring.

Tell us about your online learning experience. Did you face any challenges? My online learning experience in SIS was better than what I expected. The first time when the MCO started and face-to-face classes were changed to online, I was worried that online learning would not be as efficient as physical classes. However, I was able to learn more online. Online classes allowed teachers and students to use more fascinating online software and platforms for our learning. I reckon that online classes helped in developing our school materials on the Internet. Nevertheless, I have also faced some challenges, such as Internet connectivity problems.

What do you hope to do when you finish school? I do not have a specific plan for my future, but I am considering studying either biology or physics and astronomy at a university abroad.

What lessons did you learn in 2020? In 2020, I learnt that I should be grateful for my life and the people who always work and care for me. I am very thankful to my family and teachers, who supported me a lot in online learning. I am also appreciative of the frontliners who are still doing their best to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic for everyone.

Iwan Anugerah Pekerti

Faz Kayana

20 years old, IGCSE, A Levels

Epsom College in Malaysia, 2017-2019

“The community you’re now in is small but there is a whole world out there. You will shine.”

Name of University. University of Manchester

Tell us about your your course/major and why you chose it. I study Medicine because it is altruistic and allows me to pursue my academic interests. Medicine also offers a lot of flexibility in terms of future careers and what you can get involved in.

What is your most memorable experience in school? The fun times I had in my boarding house such as Oscar Night and Christmas parties.

What were your favourite and least favourite subjects in school, and why? Favourite: Biology, because it was highly relevant to the human body, my favourite area of study!

Least favourite: Chemistry, because it didn’t come as naturally to me as most of my other subjects did and required me to put in extra effort.

What were your extracurricular activities? I was a member of the College choir. I was also a Prep School mentor and I took up British Sign Language (BSL) briefly. What was the best thing about your school? What important lessons did you learn in your school that have helped you in your life? I think the community there truly teaches you how to navigate interactions with British people (both positive and negative), which has been helpful since I now study in the UK.

If you could travel back in time, what is the one thing that you would change when you were a student? I’d be more assertive and stand up for myself more.

What advice would you give to current students of your alma mater? The community you’re now in is small but there is a whole world out there. You will shine.

What lessons did you learn in 2020? To be more deliberate about what you spent your time and energy on. Besides that, to cherish the present moment and people that you care about.

Rei Onishi

To read more profiles like this, visit www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com Alumna from Prince of Wales Island International School

Ter Shin Huey

Alumna from St Joseph’s Institution International School