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Hi everyone! My name is Shailla, and I am happily living my last teen years pursuing a Diploma in Information Technology at Sunway College. Since young, I’ve always possessed a curious and inquisitive mind; everything exuded allure to me, and my mind would always conjure endless questions about the things around me. In retrospect, my childhood was great; every moment seemed to gleam with bright joy. However, like many other families, I was oblivious to the numerous sacrifices that my parents had to make behind the scenes to make ends meet; money was always a looming concern over my family's head. Yet, despite that, my parents tried their best to ensure that my sister and I could live the best life possible, including having a quality education. Even though I was never an exceptional student at school, that didn’t deter me at all. My parents were never strict on my sister and me about grades, so long as we received a great education at school and grew up to be kind individuals. Good or bad results were just a natural component of the learning process.

During my secondary school years, my English teacher introduced me to the ‘Closing The Gap (CTG)’ programme. CTG aspires to empower capable students from the underprivileged community to actualise their potential;  so they can have an opportunity to further their education at renowned universities all across the globe. By becoming a mentee under this initiative, I gained a plethora of knowledge and skills through the insightful mentoring given by my mentor, Miss Jinghann Hong. I will eternally be grateful to her and the programme. During this time, I also made a conscious effort to step out of my comfort zone and explore as many new opportunities as possible. I started actively participating in multiple co-curricular activities, such as being president of my school’s Interact Club. I even represented them in many competitions (Choral Speaking and Scrabble if you are curious 😉). Additionally, I started volunteering consistently as a Red Crescent  Society volunteer in sports day events. Time flittered quickly, and by the time I was in Form 5, I had accumulated a reasonable amount of experience. But more importantly, I developed an image of what I wanted my future to look like.

Of course, one can never be certain with life and her caprices. The day I received my SPM results, all the confidence and hope I had in myself shattered; my results fell short of my expectations. Dejected, I made the regrettable decision of not applying for any scholarships, as my mind had been convinced that I would not succeed with my subpar results. Still, my CTG mentor introduced me to the Sunway-TFM Scholarship. So, I gave it a try. Still a little doubtful about receiving the scholarship, I enrolled myself in Form 6 education, which seemed like the best choice I had to lessen my family’s financial burden. However, colour me surprised when I was shortlisted for the scholarship! The interview session went smoothly, and soon on one eventful day, I received a fateful phone call — I was awarded the full Sunway-TFM scholarship! My heart perked with immense triumph, and never in my life would I forget how blessed I felt at that instance. Finally, I could wholly focus on studying what I was passionate about at a top-level institute without worrying about any financial burdens on my parents' shoulders; this was my opportunity to repay my parents back for all their continual support and love. 

It has been over a year since I first came to Sunway College, and it has been an absolute delight studying at the #MostHappeningCampus. It is a well-known fact that Sunway has one of the best facilities, including the library, lecture halls, classrooms, cafeteria, and even the foyers. Furthermore, I am also a committee member of the Sunway Student Ambassadors (SSA). Through this, I have gained numerous experiences working behind the scenes in organising events. Lastly, I am forever thankful to have met innumerable supportive lecturers, fun classmates, and friends from my journey here. 

Finally, to all of you reading #MySunwayStory, I hope that you never stop believing in yourself and keep trying to strive. Sending lots of positive vibes to each and every one of you, and I hope everything works out well on your end! Thank you ❤️

Shaillasree Mohan
Diploma in Information Technology
Sunway-TFM Scholarship 
 

Hello! I'm Sharmela, 23, from KL, and I am currently pursuing a BA (Hons) in communication at Sunway University. Okay, so a little bit about me: I come from a single-parent household which consists of me, my sister (Venisri), my twin brother (Sritharan), my younger brother (Sriraj), and my mother. My father used to be in the picture, but this ceased to be when I was 13. Although my father worked as a personal driver, he was also a huge alcoholic, culminating in multiple accidents and constantly heated feuds with my mother. Eventually, their relationship got so strained that they decided to separate. The sudden separation left my parents unable to take care of my siblings and me; it also impacted our studies greatly. But fortunately, a sister who worked in Malaysian Care, Margaret, introduced us to a social care center in Sepang that has remained my home since then. Even now, that place still acts as a safe community refuge for those that do not have a place to live but still possess a bright hope for the future. 

Growing up, I didn't have access to many gadgets or devices, so I filled my time exploring as many diverse interests as possible! For example, I've always had a passion for dancing and would spend many days doing performances for various events. Furthermore, I also explored other interests such as painting the wall, baking birthday cakes, sewing bed sheets, gardening, and cooking. I even worked on Jumble Sales, selling second-hand clothes and souvenirs to raise funds for the home. Once, I even participated in a camping event by leaderonomics to learn life skills with a small group of my church friends from Royal Rangers. Staying in this home instilled the necessary courage and strength in me to live independently of my parents' support. 
After completing SPM, I yearned to further my studies at a good university that offered excellent educational programmes. Fortunately, at this time, Ms. Pauline from Malaysian Care would introduce me to the JCF Community Scholarship offered by Sunway University. So, with nothing to lose, I decided to give it a shot. Some time passed, and I was informed by the scholarship department that I had received the scholarship to pursue a diploma in Hotel Management at Sunway College. Words could not describe the immeasurable joy I felt then; I was blessed with an opportunity to study at one of the best schools in Malaysia! It would not be an understatement to say that my life completely changed from that moment on. 
My college life had truly been a blast; the state-of-the-art facilities and pleasant environment at Sunway college made every day a joy to study there. But by far, the best experience came with hanging out with the friends I made from college. Even now, one of my fondest memories remains our Sunway Lagoon trip back in 2019; an experience made possible only due to the school's generosity in giving free passes. Honestly, what more could anyone wish for? No other schools have shined as bright as Sunway College & University. 

This scholarship has unlocked a path toward my dreams while providing a tremendous opportunity to hone my education and skills to achieve greater success and give back to the community. For the readers, always look for the best opportunities; challenge yourself by believing in yourself and making it happen. Only by doing it will you know what you're capable of! All of this wouldn't have happened if I didn't believe in myself to push beyond, a decision I am forever grateful for. I am proud to have all these precious experiences as part of #MySunwayStory!

Sharmela Jeyaraman
BA (Hons) in Communication
Jeffrey Cheah Foundation Community Scholarship
 

I doubted that I would be able to afford the tuition fee of Sunway University. I came from a mediocre family, where my parents must work to accommodate our living expenses. Although we used to visit Sunway Pyramid on several vacations, it was still a rhetorical question if I would have the chance to step into Sunway University as a proud student. Fortunately, I stumbled upon a golden opportunity as I was shortlisted for an interview to become one of the Sin Chew Scholarship Awardees. This opportunity made me feel very grateful because not only was I able to pursue tertiary education with ease, but I was also able to relieve the financial burden on my parents.
I was offered to pursue Bachelor (Hons) Biology with Psychology in Sunway University which sparked tremendous interest in me as I was always interested in the field of neuroscience. However, it meant that I would have to face twice as much pressure academically as the others. For instance, I had to learn two different writing systems and two distinct hands of knowledge to excel in this field of study. Due to the difficulty of this course, my friends from the same cohort and I felt that we were not knowledgeable enough in biology or psychology compared to other students who were majoring solely in either of those subjects. However, I pushed these negative thoughts away and instead, cultivated a positive approach to face this as a challenge. Thus, whenever I had any doubts or difficulties in my studies, I made sure to reach out to my friends and lecturers for assistance. Hence, I would like to thank my fellow friends and beloved lecturers who were always there to support and provide guidance to me throughout my tough times.

On the plus side, Sunway University offered various opportunities for me to continue improving my skills and knowledge. As I originate from Kelantan, I lacked fluency in English, as this language was not commonly spoken there. Nevertheless, an English-speaking environment in Sunway University has honed my English command to a level that I am confident enough to speak with the people around me with ease. Furthermore, I utilised my chance to explore numerous intellectual resources not only from the campus library but also from the discussions with lecturers who are very intellectual. 

Additionally, from my experience thus far in pursuing tertiary education in Sunway University, here are some tips that I would like to share with my fellow juniors:

1. Sunway University has plenty of student clubs and societies, so make sure to join them and strike a balance between academic and co-curricular activities. That makes a balanced study life!
2. Create great connections with your friends and lecturers as they may help you in the future.
3. Make sure to explore and have fun!  

With a great 3-year experience of my bachelor’s degree, I am prepared to face harder challenges in my postgraduate study in the future. I believe this experience of mine has enabled me to gain invaluable knowledge as well as useful skills to further develop myself. Thus, I would like to express my gratitude towards Sunway University which has provided significant support and shaped me into the person I am today. Thank you for reading #MySunwayStory.

Tan Zing Hern
Bachelor (Hons) Biology with Psychology 
Sin Chew Scholarship Award 
 

As I am witnessing my final semester as a university student fleeting before my eyes, I spent a long time considering what I should and should not say in this story of mine. As the former President of Sunway Echo Media, apprehension arose within me that this composition would lack a poetic touch. As the current Vice President of the Sunway University Student Council (SUSC) and a recipient of the esteemed Chancellor Scholarship, I feared it might lack sophistication. In fact, it wasn't until I was tasked with writing for #MySunwayStory that the realisation struck me—it is indeed my last semester at Sunway. Until then, I had been mentally preparing for this day, busying myself with recounting the milestones I achieved, a diversion from the stark reality. But now, it has dawned upon me that I will not be here for the 'next,' and the same applies to many of us. Hence, I have finally settled on the message I wish to convey. And so, here it goes~

Ever since I was in high school, people would say in their speeches and essays that they’ve learned a lot and improved as an individual throughout their experiences in organisations but it always seemed too nebulous. It is merely an obligatory statement devoid of true significance. However, I would be remiss if I did not admit to feeling the same way now. Throughout my time at Sunway, I have matured as a leader, a follower, and as an individual. It is astonishing to believe that three years spent with strangers and soon-to-be close friends have transformed me to such an extent. 

So, allow me to spare you the LinkedIn humble boasting as it fails to capture the essence of who I truly am. Instead, I wish to express my gratitude to the people I hold dear, the people within the Sunway community. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the Sunway College Student Council for believing in me when I was a timid executive applying for the role of Community Service Director, reminding me to give others a chance too; To the Sunway Echo Media team, I express my gratitude for teaching me that while talent and passion make an excellent combination, one matters more than the other; I am indebted to the Sunway Cultural Exchange team for instilling in me the ability to connect with people and foster unity, regardless of the circumstances; My gratitude extends to the scholarship committee for imparting the valuable lesson that confidence does not equate to arrogance, and that it doesn't hurt to pat yourself on the back sometimes; Lastly, I would like to thank the Sunway University Student Council for accepting me, trusting me, and working alongside me. Together, we endeavoured to bridge the gap between the council and the students, teaching me that if you want something done right, you rely on your incredible team. 

Working with talented people shifts your perspectives on things. Talented individuals are often driven by passion, and when one is truly passionate about something, they become fully absorbed in it. I have no regrets in this regard; it has been an exhilarating experience that has taught me the importance of finding joy even in formal settings; always reminding me that the best work stems from the most sincere of feelings; teaching me that most mistakes do not mean the end of the world, there can always be retakes. However, if I could turn back time, I would approach things slightly differently. I would prioritise having sufficient sleep and rest, invest more time in building relationships with those around me rather than burying myself in my laptop, pause to check on my team more frequently, decline tasks when overwhelmed, say yes to opportunities even if I felt inexperienced, and open up sooner because three years isn't as long as you think it is. I would realise that I, as an individual, and the organisations or positions I held are distinct entities, yet I am one with my team.

Hence, I can only hope that, in exchange for everything the souls within Sunway have taught me, I have succeeded in reminding just as many that appreciating those around you reaps greater rewards than quantitative success. The values of patience and kindness are not earned; they should be our guiding principles. Regardless of rank, respect should never be absent, and experience should never undermine humility.

Your worth as an individual and student cannot be measured by how many organisations you run and how well you run them. It does not hinge on the number of scholarships you secure, although such achievements may offer temporary satisfaction. I hope that by being part of this impressive community, you come to realise that the way you sincerely treat yourself and those around you holds more significance in the long run than the fleeting moments on stage as the Community Service Director of College Council, the President of Echo Media, the Vice President of University Council, the recipient of the Chancellor Scholarship, the Sunway-Lancaster Student Ambassador, or the Vice Chancellor Award recipient.

Fast forward three years, and here we are. I will miss the council meetings and the to-do lists, the late-night project planning, and above all, the people who have transformed Sunway into more than just a campus for me—far more than one would assume of me. This is dedicated to all of you who have contributed to shaping the person I see in the mirror today. Thank you for instilling in me an immense sense of pride in calling myself a #Sunwayian. If you have managed to read this far, I sincerely wish you the best. May you continue to teach and learn from one another, just as my batch and I have done. Together, let us strive to become the voice of our peers, of Sunway Students. Because if there's one thing we are: we are passionate, we are a class above.

Syarifah Nursyafiqah
The Chancellors Scholarship of Sunway University and Lancaster University
 

“Why Chemical Engineering” is what I’ve always been asked. For others, asking about your choice of degree and institution can be a part and parcel matter, but for me, it was a great sense of pride to boast about it.

After securing an entrance scholarship to study A-levels at Sunway College, I was over the moon to continue studying my 3 favourite subjects, Chemistry, Physics and Maths as well as creating my very own chapter of ‘college life’. My plan used to be to pursue my dream degree in Australia and to experience a new cultural environment. However, things took a 180-degree turn when the pandemic hit as my plans had to come to a halt indefinitely. Despite the difficult transition, I'm grateful my family emphasized there is more to life than just academics. Since I was always fascinated on how things were made, I embarked on new hobbies during the MCO such as baking, gardening and discovered the new TV series “Inside the Factory” about how products came to exist as we know them today led me to ponder my next step after A Levels.

As days passed, I decided to pursue my degree locally, realising how financially exhausting it is to go overseas. One day on campus, I bumped into an advertisement about the newly introduced Chemical Engineering Course at Sunway University. Nevertheless, I was determined to find an institution which could prepare me for the workforce, hence my education fair-hopping began. While doing research, Sunway University stood out the most among other universities in terms of campus life and scholarships. The campus visit to the chemical labs equipped with the latest technology at level 11 had already captivated me. Knowing that Sunway is well-known for its investment in holistic education whilst embedding the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals in its curriculum, I applied and was awarded the full scholarship to pursue a chemical engineering degree in Sunway University. 

As I stumbled upon challenges in my degree which was very different from A-Level, I decided to join the committee of Sunway Student Ambassadors through my scholarship to divert my attention. Ever since then, my student life was never just black and white anymore. The opportunity to organise various activities for underprivileged children was what I enjoyed the most. It was fulfilling to know I could also contribute back to society. Through this student leadership body, I also had the chance to partake in many internal and external initiatives. 

After 3 years on hiatus, being part of the organising committee of an event as big as Sunway’s Got Talent Season 5 and leading a team of 10 members for six months in the Logistics department whilst engaging with different stakeholders was like flipping the pages of my new storybook. During these events, I learnt multiple valuable skills on the ground while fostering long-lasting friendships with my teammates and Sunway Staff. It is their efforts and passion that have inspired me to strive forward. 

Recently, I was awarded the “Global Explorer Award” by the Student LIFE. As I recollect what seems like a distant dream to further studies overseas, I was able to achieve these experiences through my vibrant University life here at the most happening campus - Sunway University. 

Lastly, I would like to put it out there to #MySunwaystory readers, that you don't have to be a special someone to achieve something. Be an explorer and constantly seek growth in whichever path you’ve chosen at your own pace. To be able to achieve so many goals only in my first year of degree, I’m proud to say that Sunway University was my ideal choice of university after all. 

Hooi Soong Ling
Sunway University Excellence Scholarship
 

Embracing the philosophy that "work is worship and service is prayer," I find significance in the idea that work is a blessing, often accompanied by challenges and sacrifices. This encourages a life of service and contributing to the community for mutual betterment, going beyond personal success to mindful consideration of others. Sunway's 3 Ts - time, talent, and treasure - align with this concept, emphasising the importance of contributing to community improvement.

My journey of community service commenced in Alor Setar before my Sunway days, marked by active participation in charitable acts. In college and university, I focused on giving back to students through onboarding and tutorship. Post-graduation, my commitment extended to roles such as a children's class teacher, youth facilitator, self-improvement studies facilitator, and choir master. Notably, I served in various capacities in Sri Damansara, including a four-year term as the Residents Association President during the challenging pandemic period. We initiated donation drives, workshops, and township sporting events, fostering unity among the residents. We partnered with corporate sectors and individuals for this. Along the way, I too facilitated free workshops on PowerPoint skills to help upskill those in need too.  

I played a key role in organising fun sporting events in our township, designed to bring people from diverse backgrounds together. These events included badminton, futsal, and basketball. One unique initiative was the "Fun for All" badminton event, where pairings were randomly done on the day of the tournament. This inclusive approach allowed participants of any race and gender to team up, organised based on age groups. Concurrently, I am a volunteer in several mentorship programmes for undergraduates, including Sunway Mentoring serving as a mentor for future graduates.

Reflecting on my time in Sunway, a proud moment was being part of the inaugural Sunway Student Council in 1990, where I served as the first Sports Secretary. I organised the Inter-Programme Sports Carnival and the Sunway College Invitational Soccer Tournament, highlighting the unifying impact of sports. Expanding my involvement, I secured a grant from Monash's then Pro Vice Chancellor, officially registering the Sunway Club at Monash's Clayton campus. As the first President, my focus was on supporting transfer students and fostering a strong social network. I extended my commitment to community service at Monash, contributing to International Student Services and the Student Union, organising events like the Multi-Cultural Evening. These experiences helped refine my leadership skills and solidified my dedication to a balanced life of service and leadership.

Allow me to give thanks and a note of gratitude to Tan Sri Sir Jeffrey Cheah as his vision and noble intention of enabling as many to get the best affordable education meant that I reaped the benefits. His vision allowed me to pursue a double degree in the late '80s, shaping my life and my sister’s by experiencing education abroad. Today, Tan Sri continues to impact my family, with my son employed by a multinational company upon completing his Sunway degree and my daughter in her first year of undergraduate studies. In appreciation, I serve as a mentor to the alumni community in Sunway, sharing experiences, and contributing my time to the wider community too.

Through all these experiences, I reiterate that giving back is crucial, and it goes beyond just material contributions; it involves investing time, skills, effort, and compassion. Once again, the concept of Sunway's 3 Ts resonates here - time, talent, and treasure. If we contribute to the improvement of others and our community, the positive impact ripples, benefitting everyone. This cycle of enrichment and empowerment doesn't just stop with us; it extends to future generations, creating a continuous circle of life - one that fosters success and a better life for all.

Zohrab Chong Aik Shuen
Sunway-Monash Twinning Programme
(1990 - 1994)

Hailing from B40 family in Kamunting and becoming the first-generation college graduate; literacy on scholarships and universities is limited. Despite not applying for any needs-based scholarships due to the lack of exposure and the lack of parent/teacher/sibling guidance when it comes to studying in a college; I am thankful to:

• Sunway College for awarding me the Sunway Special Scholarship, 
• the Ministry of Education for awarding me the Perbadanan Tabung Pendidikan Tinggi Nasional Malaysia loan; and
• Sunway University for awarding me the Jeffrey Cheah Continuing Scholarship 

which crafted my pathway into pursuing tertiary education. Later, I have been fortunate to have received the Khazanah scholarship to pursue my postgraduate studies in Education and International Development at University College London.

Going through all that, I would never want any other kid out there experiencing the lack of exposure or know-how in reaching their full potential. Ergo; I have pledged to support other underprivileged, underserved, and underrepresented students out there as I currently:

• mentor low-income students to obtain full scholarships,
• serve in the selection committee for scholarships abroad,
• run a refugee organisation to award 18 refugee children into schools to change their lives, and
• others.

As an alumna of the prestigious education institution like Sunway, I suppose my way of giving back is to propagate what I have learnt to the juniors; be it speaking at talks, panels, or workshops. And of course, having mentored 3 kids who have achieved in obtaining full need-based scholarships at Sunway itself (they are currently still studying in Sunway).

"Philosophers have hitherto only interpreted the world in various ways; the point is to change it" is a powerful quote by Karl Marx. It reminds me that we have a responsibility not just to interpret the world, but to actively work towards changing it for the better.

#TheGivingSunwayian
#AlumniGiveBack
Time.Talent.Treasure

“Growing up, I was the opposite of King Midas. Instead of making everything I touch turn into gold, they turn bad. I wasn't able to do anything right, neither in my studies, music nor sports. During my primary and secondary school years, I was slightly socially awkward. It makes it hard for me to make friends, resulting in me being bullied since I was 8 years old. It only got better after high school.

Everything began to change when I was 18. I found my passion in life. I knew I was made for the arts. I also knew I was taking risk, but I asked myself: "If not now, then when?" I was never a straight A’s student. I only scored 2As out of 10 subjects for SPM. But by God's grace, I did well throughout diploma, receiving the Valedictory and Best Student award.

While pursuing a degree in film-making, I found the beauty of being able to use this vessel to spread good to the world. My maturity in film-making has grown so much more. I now not only view the world differently, I also view films differently, which ultimately allows me to make films in a unique way. The Chancellors Scholarship gave me a golden opportunity to aim at something that I only dared to dream of just months before. 'Thank you' could never express my gratitude.

For all of you who are reading #MySunwayStory, if you're experiencing a season of self doubt, remember this... Greatness awaits. It sounds cliché but trust me, I'm not exaggerating. I caught a glimpse of greatness and I know, it's just the tip of the iceberg. I believe the same for you too. Hold on to your dream, resurrect it if you have to, but never give up on it. Dear fellow friends, don't lose your heart, because the sunrise is right at the edge of the horizon.”

Steven Soon Soo Onn
BA (Hons) Digital Film Production
The Chancellors Scholarship

"Once upon a time, there was a fat and ugly girl who had a small tongue problem which made her unable to pronounce words clearly especially in English. One day she was called to read an English article in class. But due to her problem, her classmates could not really understand what she was talking, and so all of them laughed.

She held back her tears and pretended as though nothing had happened, even though it had hurt her deeply. From that moment on, she decided not to be involved in any public speaking events and always found excuses whenever it was her turn to speak, just to avoid the same situation. Even though her tongue problem had gradually improved as she grew up, but that experience had left an impact on her, as it became a shadow in her life.

Guess what? That was me, Sow Chuhan.

During my A levels, I set myself a target – 4A*’s, yet, I failed to secure an A* for the favourite subject of mine. Still, I had never thought of giving up in improving myself. I have been working harder and harder, aiming higher and higher in every flaw that I discovered. I am basically trying my best to achieve perfection if possible. To be able to improve my flaws in terms of English proficiency, I volunteered for a bunch of charitable events, met many kinds of people from many different backgrounds.

Through this, I get to understand how people work on their dreams and achieve their goals, regardless of academic field or career form. In order to apply for the Sunway Excellence Scholarship which is offered to very few students per year, I have been training harder in terms of English proficiency and fluency.

And yes, I successfully conquered all requirements. I am really thankful to be the chosen one, and so, I decided to be part of SSA as the President, which is a perfect platform to improve non-academic skills such as interpersonal skills, leadership skills and analytical skills. With these skills, my potential is unleashed to an even greater extent, becoming a greater leader.

Most Importantly, I am more than grateful to be given this golden opportunity to deliver an important message to each one of my fellow friends who read this through #MySunwayStory – Things that do not challenge you, would not change you. Do not escape from challenges, escape from your comfort zone. No one is born with limit!"

Sow Chuhan
BSc (Hons) Actuarial Studies
Sunway Excellence Scholarship