Final day at campus: The group of students celebrating their final day on campus with their beloved lecturer, Ms Cindy Poh (far left, in dark blue attire).
In June 2024, TAR UMT lecturer, Cindy Poh shared with the media her experience of journeying with a group of students who began their studies at TAR UMT at the start of the Covid-19 lockdown. Unlike her other students taught previously, this group is rather special as they had begun their studies attending virtual classrooms due to the lockdown. Following Cindy’s sharing, this is the story of this group of students.
We started our studies at TAR UMT right in the middle of the Covid-19 lockdown where classes and tutorials were conducted virtually. We encountered numerous challenges at the beginning — from technical hiccups to the lack of in-person connections. Yet, Ms Cindy’s unwavering resilience, adaptability, and determination not only helped us overcome these obstacles but she also shared with us that the experience helped her to be more empathetic and resilient as an educator. Her support and guidance have been invaluable, and she also taught us the power of perseverance and grit, which will be valuable for us in our future endeavours.
A significant highlight of our journey with Ms Cindy was winning the prestigious Kancil Student Award for Project G, a sustainability project for Earth Day celebrations. We couldn't have achieved this win without Ms Cindy's encouragement and mentorship. In addition, it was through her industry connections that allowed us to work with industry giants like Google, Nestle, and Shopee.
Ms Cindy’s support and guidance were crucial during our studies. She provided continuous feedback and was always available for consultation, which kept us motivated. Her encouragement to apply our learning to real-world situations made our studies relevant and exciting. She used techniques to make her lessons engaging, such as incorporating real-world applications, encouraging discussions and group projects, and using multimedia resources. Although limited to virtual sessions, we were still able to expand our creativity and innovativeness thanks to her dedication and guidance.
All these factors added to our excitement of meeting Ms Cindy in person for the first time after two years of virtual interactions. What we have accomplished with Ms Cindy is a great motivation, that we have the abilities to rise above challenges when we put our mind and heart into it.
Our heartfelt message to Ms Cindy is this: We will hold on to the lessons you have taught us and to never give up when faced with challenges. Thank you, Ms Cindy, for believing in us and shaping our future.
From your beloved students,
Chong Zi Xuan, Chow Zi Xuan, Kuah Hui En, Lee Xin Yong, Liew Boon Fei, Lok San Nee, Low Xin Yin, Low Sue Qi, Mah Kah Mun, Tan Ann Chee, Tan Kah Ling, Tan Sze Ni, Vennesa, Victor, and Woon Huang Qing of the Bachelor of Communication (Hons) in Advertising programme.
