Clear path to success
A FRIEND in need is a friend indeed. This idiom resonates with 22-year-old Ng Koi Kee, whose chance meeting with a friend helped her decide on her career path.
Having earned a prestigious scholarship, Ng needed to make a quick decision on which university to attend.
“After my SPM, I had no idea what to do in terms of tertiary education,” said Ng.
“Then, I met a friend – a Nilai University (Nilai U) graduate who sang praises of the university. After a visit to the campus and a chat with faculty members, it was easy to see why.”
The green and peaceful environment at Nilai U reminded Ng of her home in Jerantut, Pahang.
“At Nilai U, I received quality education and excellent pastoral care that allowed for personal growth, as well as a chance to participate in a host of exhilarating recreational activities within a safe, healthy and conducive environment.”
Ng spent four years at Nilai U, starting with the Foundation in Science programme before moving on to her degree.
“Whenever I had a problem, I could always count on my lecturers for guidance,” she said.
Ng explained that the computer science curriculum at Nilai U placed a lot of emphasis on programming.
The help she received from her lecturers was crucial in helping her master programming and other challenging subjects.
“Some of the methods used to guide the students, such as the Mentor-Mentee programme, were useful in helping the lecturers and students bond,” she said.
Ng emphasised that this cordial environment made it conducive for students, even the shy and apprehensive ones, to seek help from the lecturers.
The guidance she received motivated her to serve as an instructor during the Game Programming Workshop organised by Nilai U’s Department of Computing.
Her participation in such activities helped build her selfconfidence and develop personal skills.
As an instructor, Ng was responsible for guiding secondary school students in using programming to produce a game.
“There was never a shortage of activities at the faculty. I attended an International Conference on Communication organised by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).
“I also participated in the IEEE Xtreme 9.0 Global Programming Competition, a 24-hour international online contest with competitors from all over the world,” she said.
She also encouraged students to seize the opportunity to take part in the many sports and recreational activities offered by the university.
Ng learned teamwork and leadership skills by participating in many national level tchoukball championships.
“Tchoukball taught me how to be a humble leader, an effective communicator and a team player,” she said.
Ng plans to secure a career beyond Malaysian shores one day. For now, she has decided to continue with her studies in data science in University Malaya.
“There is a robust demand for computer science graduates. Employers are looking for talented individuals who are competent and confident,” she added.
Nilai U’s Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) programme prepares students for the real world.
They also have the opportunity to gain enhanced certifications, including the Novel Certified Linus Administrator and Novel Certified Linus Professional certificates.
■ For more information, visit Nilai U’s website at www.nilai.edu.my or its campus during its Open Days on April 28 and 29.
Alternatively, contact its counsellor at 06-850 2308 or e-mail marketing@nilai.edu.my
Whenever I had a problem, I could always count on my lecturers for guidance. Ng Koi Kee