An Australian degree, a global citizen
Mauritian born Ummay Kawthar Bengah has been studying at Sunway University since July 2008. She is in her final semester of a Bachelor of Business through the Victoria University program. At 23 years of age, Ummay is looking forward to graduating from her course and commencing her career in Banking and Finance.
The transnational education offered at Sunway University through their partnership with Victoria University, is what drew Ummay to Malaysia. She wanted a good quality Australian education in a location that was not too far from home and of course, one that her family could afford.
“I felt the need to travel outside abroad for study as the caliber of tertiary education in Mauritus is not very high. I was determined to get a good education and take a big step into a new world. My family was nervous about sending me abroad to study, but they were pleased that I would be only a short flight away,” says Ummay.
Ummay also received a part scholarship for her studies, which was a valuable incentive that assisted her to get started on campus. |
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“For the first 2 weeks at university, I was so homesick and depressed. I cried almost everyday. Then when classes started, I got into a routine, made lots of friends and began to enjoy myself very much. I grew up very quickly and I felt very confident that I could face it. I felt very adult,” recalls Ummay.
This new sense of independence and the ability to adapt to the university environment in a new country is a common benefit of transnational education. Not only do students obtain a quality education, they also experience tremendous personal growth, which helps to set them up for a successful future. |
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“University has influenced me in so many ways, not just academically. Previously I was quite shy, and now I am very comfortable talking to adults and people from all areas of life,” says Ummay. “I have tried to make the most of the opportunity of being here and I feel that I have done that very well. I am the leader of the Sunway Certified Practicing Accountants student charter and through this I learned to manage people, motivate others, and combine my study with these extra activities,” she says.
As with most transnational education institutions, the diversity of nationalities on campus provides another fascinating element to the education experience. Many students relish the opportunity to learn about new cultures, alternative ways of thinking and of course, sampling many new types of food.
“I really like the Malaysian culture and the diversity of nationalities on campus at Sunway. In my course we have lots of students from different nationalities including, Indonesians, Africans, Kenyans, Tanzanians and Indians,” says Ummay. “ I also love the food here and the variety of cuisine available especially. When I first arrived I was very skinny but I have gained quite a lot of weight since being here. The food is so tasty,” she laughs.
Due to finish her studies next term, Ummay will take yet another ‘big step into a new world’ by starting her career.
“I am so thankful for the experience of studying here. I have had a great education experience, made many life long friends from all over the globe and my best friend from Singapore has been a great support to me. After I finish my studies, I would like to take a trip to Singapore to stay with my friend and her family, and try to get a job either in Singapore or back home,” she says.
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