Onnwan Aroonratana
“I firmly believe that a more promising future lies with going to university as it can bestow me with the necessary knowledge and opportunities I seek.”
Hi! My name is Onnwan Aroonratana, and still surviving the first quarter of my 22nd year on this Earth. I hail from Ipoh, a city celebrated for its local food. Now, you might be wondering about my name, and yes, many people have thought it was weird. But I take it as a compliment because it is distinctive. To let the cat out of the bag, I am a Malaysian rojak with a Singaporean mother and a half-Siamese father. Unfortunately, I do not know any Thai and was raised as your typical Chinese Malaysian.
My tertiary journey first began when I had to decide whether to continue my studies in form six or pursue foundation studies. Since my parents work outstation, this was the first big decision I had to make. In the end, I chose to continue into STPM as I would be able to save more money and perhaps boost my chances of entering university as well. This came as a shock to my family as the majority of them believe that the importance of work experience eclipses that of the time spent pursuing an education. Therefore, they would often stress the value of obtaining a steady job quickly rather than being a fresh graduate with zero experience. However, I dare to challenge that notion greatly. I firmly believe that a more promising future lies with going to university as it can bestow me with the necessary knowledge and opportunities I seek. Furthermore, I am rather skeptical of my options as an STPM graduate, even if it may provide me with a kickstart into the working world.
To alleviate the burdens placed on my parents, I decided to seek available scholarships. So, after completing my exam, I scoured all sources for all the different types of scholarships, and that's when I came across The Star Education Fund. Incidentally, this happened around the time that MCO 1.0 commenced, so I had ample time to conduct research and craft my ideal application before submitting it. But, most importantly, this period gave me enough time to prepare for the interview; it truly was an unforgettable memory for me. My interview lasted for 45 minutes, and it was with Professor Stephenson, the Dean of SHSM (School of Hospitality and Service Management). Going in, I felt incredibly jittery and nervous, but my interviewers showered me with such warmth that it just melted away all my anxiety. The next thing I knew, I found myself absolutely enthralled and focused on the session. And what do you know? Now I am writing to you all as a proud student of Sunway University.
Currently, I am pursuing my second year of degree studies in the International Hospitality Management program. Additionally, I also serve as the current president of the Sunway Global Friends Community and as a student cohort representative. Besides being a part of a student leadership body, I am also actively interested in engaging in online activities hosted by Sunway clubs and other global institutes. I cite the serenity and opportunity to interact with more people as one of my impetus for participating in so many clubs and societies.
Apart from academics, I would firmly advise everyone reading #MySunwayStory to do and pursue what they believe is the best for themselves. Live your life the way you want it to be lived. Time is like a river that is always flowing, so treasure it strongly; enjoy the time you have, and spend it carefully with the people who mean the most. Then, you will not have time to be sorry. So, have fun and live life to the fullest!
Onnwan Aroonratana
BSc (Hons) in International Hospitality Management
The Star Education Fund
