Let us introduce you to Mohd Nabil, a UniSA alumni who served as the previous MASCA SA Chairperson and is currently working as a Senior Business Analyst in Dubai- Here is his story:
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What are a few of your proudest achievements?
MN: 1. Winning the Merdeka Award 2. MASA 2015 3. Friendships and successful relationships
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• Reflecting on those achievements, can you emphasise on them and explain what/how much they mean to you?
MN: 1. The Merdeka Award is meaningful to me because out of all the winners so far, I believe I am the most average joe fortunate enough to win it. I studied at the very last minute, usually spent my weekends out or in bed reading and generally procrastinate at every turn. I would like to think that if I could do it, then surely awards are not only reserved for extraordinary people because I am just like most people who have plenty to do yet still struggle in finding the energy to do it.
2. I have fond memories of MASA 2015 as well and while there may be better MASA events, the Malaysian Summit of Australia (MASA) 2015 is special to me because of so many “firsts”. My first interstate travel, first time meeting other Malaysians studying interstate & first truly “big event” that I had to work on. Long Skype hours to get the work done? Check. Recognized as the best international student event in Australia? Check. Everyone becoming close friends (admittedly this happens with every MASA) after just one night together? Check. All in all, memorable and sentimental.
PS: I believe we still hold the record for the longest Skype meeting (7 hours)
3. Friendships (not just Malaysians but other international students). Watch “Friends” if you still don’t know what close friendships can do in your life. Australia definitely gave me a few Monicas, Chandlers, Ross-es, Rachels, Joeys and Phoebes. God bless the people and significant other who can tolerate me!
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• What are some of the struggles you have faced in your 'journey' towards these achievements?
MN: Laziness and self-doubt for sure. Am I good enough? I still don’t think so.
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• What is one piece of advice you would give to other Malaysian students who have their sights set on lofty goals and achieving big things?
MN: Learn to dedicate your time and energy. You might be in sleep mode most of the day but when it’s time to get things done then finish them and make sure they’re quality so that you don’t have to do it again. Then you can go back to being on standby and recharge yourself. Not everything is a priority that requires your immediate attention so simply learning when to zero in and when you can go on autopilot is one way I’ve tackled my chronic laziness.