Higher Education
KRISTA Angelina was a regular feisty 17-year-old attending her first year at Nilai University when a debilitating illness threatened her life. Not one to surrender easily, she the youngest student in her degree programme found the courage to fight back with the love and support from her family, friends and lecturers at Nilai U.
The bubbly Business and Hospitality Management student shared: “I was on top of the world when I started my first year at Nilai U. The environment on campus is so dynamic.
“I have a huge interest in music, especially in singing and playing the piano. My friends and I pioneered the Nilai U music club and performed at many events.”
However, Krista was dealt a blow in her second year when she was diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis, a neuromuscular disease, which causes loss of muscle strength.
Krista was on the verge of giving up; if it were not for the encouragement from her family, friends and lecturers.
“In my third year, I underwent a procedure called Plasmapheresis. It helped me regain my physical strength. This second lease on life made me appreciate what I have and I wanted to seize every opportunity to live my life to the fullest,” said Krista.
Armed with renewed spirit, Krista resumed her participation in the many of Nilai U’s clubs, societies and sports, including golf.
“Nilai U is unique. It offers personal development courses with Dale Carnegie and Outward Bound, among others you will not get at any other institution.
“Students are awarded certificates by external bodies upon the successful completion. These certificates were a huge boost to my resume,” adds Krista.
Ample guidance
Krista also said that the guidance from her lecturers had enhanced her confidence, equipped her with communication skills and gave her valuable insight into self-branding. Her confidence had certainly paid off, Krista at 21, is currently a Senior Finance Analyst (Service Management) with British American Tobacco Shared Services Asia Pacific.
Krista stresses why she chose Nilai U: “Nilai U has a very good reputation among international students. I considered other institutions, but none fit the conducive environment I was looking for.
“I wanted a place I could enjoy the serenity of home and be guided by the pastoral care of the staff and lecturers.”
Krista emphasises that the university’s green campus did wonders for her health and was vital in aiding her recovery.
Well-equipped facilities
The well-equipped learning facilities and on-campus accommodation played a key role in helping her focus on her studies and day-to-day activities.
When asked what her future plans are, Krista did not hesitate: “I want to keep on learning. With my degree in hospitality and management, I am now looking to enrich my knowledge in other fields as well. Currently, I am broadening my experience in the finance (shared services) industry. Someday, when I have enough funds, I will do a Master's degree in Project Management.”
Nilai U’s accredited B.A. (Hons) in Business and Hospitality Management equips students with industry-driven core modules and the necessary skills to be industry-ready.
Students are also offered specially crafted elective modules on Entrepreneurship, Critical Thinking, Professional Development and the much sought-after Dale Carnegie Skills For Success. Close ties with the industry also give students the opportunity to work with renowned hotels and organisations throughout their studies.
■ For more details, visit Nilai U’s website at www.nilai.edu.my or campus on Open Days from Sept 30 to Oct 1 or contact its counsellor at 06-850 2308 or e-mail marketing@nilai.edu.my