In an ever-evolving educational landscape, choosing the right university can significantly influence one's academic and professional trajectory. Low Ee Xuan, a current student at TAR UMT, embodies this sentiment through her journey in the Foundation in Business programme.
Her decision to study at TAR UMT was driven by both practical and personal considerations. “I chose TAR UMT because of the high-quality education and affordable fees compared to the rest. I also have a friend studying at TAR UMT and she often shares with me about the conducive learning environment, vast campus surroundings and the University’s good support system to help students in all aspects, including financial support,” she explained.
Ee Xuan enjoying doing some revision outdoors on campus.
Another key advantage for her is that the University offers a dual degree programme. “The option to pursue a dual degree is attractive as I have the chance to study abroad, where I can experience different cultures, and environments as well as work with peers from different countries. Such experience is a must-have in today’s landscape,” she said.
Ee Xuan chose to study the Foundation in Business because of her interest and desire to learn more about the different aspects of business. She was attracted to the programme's comprehensive approach, which covers topics like accounting, finance, marketing, and management. Ee Xuan wanted to understand how businesses adapt to a changing world, and she believed that the programme would help her achieve her goals.
The shift from high school to the Foundation programme posed notable challenges for Ee Xuan. “Compared to my high school years where the pace and structure were more controlled, University life is different as each course in the Foundation programme delves deeper into a specific subject and the assignments are more complex and specific. For example, one of the assignments included examining the nature of a company’s surrounding competitors, its financial status, and marketing activities. The experience was not only interesting but also surreal, similar to an actual business analysis.”
“I also enjoyed learning Principles of Marketing, especially about the connection between psychology and consumer behaviour. Certain courses were challenging like Management Information Systems (MIS). Fortunately, I got help from my lecturers and friends who were willing to explain the concepts to me, so that I could better comprehend the subject. In addition, I also have frequent discussions with my friends about matters that are challenging to grasp, such as subjects that are difficult to understand. I appreciate these discussions as I get to learn different viewpoints and creative solutions,” she shares.
Although the programme duration is only for a year, Foundation students like Ee Xuan are still required to be active in co-curricular activities. “It was challenging in the beginning having to maintain a balanced campus lifestyle but this taught me how to manage my time well. I prepared a detailed daily schedule comprising attending classes, studying and participating in co-curricular activities. After some time in following this schedule, it has become a habit and I feel good that I can spend my time well in a day with important and useful activities and tasks,” Ee Xuan concluded.
