Cheng Leh Ching

“Our future is still undecided and we are writing it as we go.”
 
Growing up, we have no control over what and which type of family background we are born in. However, we can choose how to live tomorrow. I come from a less fortunate group, where I did not have a chance to enjoy my ‘parent’s love’ as they left me at a young age. Hence, I decided to not further my studies and work instead after finishing high school. One day, I received an email which notified me that my friends and I were selected for an interview for the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation Community Scholarship. Despite the fact that I have never been to West Malaysia, I was aware of how well-known Sunway University is. It was a few weeks before I received word from Sunway that I had been chosen as one of the JCF Community Scholarship recipients. Nothing could express my feelings at that moment. There was a mixture of excitement and, of course, some nervousness, as this was my first trip to Kuala Lumpur as a ‘kampung’ girl.
 
#MySunwayStory began when I departed from my hometown and stepped foot into Sunway University. The environment at Sunway really impressed me and changed my perspective of university life. I started to be more independent and disciplined in terms of doing my own revision, knowing that my only job as a student is to study hard. Besides that, I also made friends with my course mates, of which I met a few of them from my hometown. This reduced my anxiety and it made my university life an easier one. On top of that, the lecturers were really helpful and provided support when needed which made me feel at ease. During the first semester, I had a hard time understanding the lessons due to the lessons being conducted in English and my level of English was quite mediocre. A few of us would catch the lecturer during break time or after class in order to have a better understanding of the lesson. The lecturers are very accommodating, helpful and perform their tasks very well. They make sure we understand and clear our queries before we leave. Other than that, the counsellors in charge also did a remarkable job as we can share anything with them, even past hardships or difficulties that you face currently. There will often be stress from assignments, including the difficulty of completing them in a certain time frame. Nonetheless, the counsellors are always there to support and encourage me to move on. When I look back to #MySunwayStory, there is a bittersweet feeling but I wish to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and everyone who has been a part of my university life; those who patted my back when I am down, pulled me up when I fall and of course, the most important supportive role played by my beloved lectures and counsellors.
 
My journey with Sunway University came to an end last year. The biggest achievement for me was graduating with flying colours as my hard work paid off. During the graduation ceremony, I was deeply moved when I stood on stage and received my certificate as after much struggling, my university life had eventually come to an end. I am thrilled and pleased to let everyone know that I graduated from such a prestigious and reputable university, and would definitely recommend Sunway University to those in need of scholarships. I had a really great experience with Sunway University, which also offers the necessary advanced facilities and equipment needed. Once again, I would like to extend my sincerest appreciation and gratitude to Sunway for providing me with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to study at Sunway University. With this, I can be a better version of myself and have a brighter future.
 
Cheng Leh Ching
BSc (Hons) in International Hospitality Management
Jeffrey Cheah Community Scholarship