A Campus, Community, and Catalyst: What Makes UoSM Home for Students Around the World

The University of Southampton Malaysia (UoSM) has long been a place where students from around the world come together to learn, grow, and create lasting memories.

More than just a campus, it is a hub of innovation and collaboration. Students benefit from world-class teaching delivered by highly qualified academics, cutting-edge research, strong industry links and a vibrant student life.

Being a place where ambition meets opportunity, students not only leave with a world-class degree but also the confidence needed to shape their future.

To understand what makes the UoSM experience unique, we spoke with four recent graduates. Their stories reveal the blend of academic rigour, supportive communities and vibrant student life that defines UoSM as the number one UK university in Malaysia.

Lau Yi Kiat: Turning a Practical Choice into a Passion for Computer Science

For Lau Yi Kiat, a BSc in Computer Science graduate and a proud Johor resident, choosing UoSM was a practical yet meaningful decision. “With home close to campus and lower living costs, it felt like the right fit,” she said.

What began as a convenient choice soon grew into an experience that shaped her future. Her final-year project on facial emotional recognition in computer vision remains the highlight of her studies. 

“This project allowed me to dive deep into research and work closely with my lecturers. Their guidance gave me the confidence I needed in conducting research and finding solutions.”

Beyond academics, Yi Kiat valued the personal support from both friends and lecturers.

“Studying on a campus with fewer students meant we had closer interactions with our professors, who could give more focused attention to students. At the same time, my friends were always there to help each other along the way.” 

Student life, she added, was just as enriching. With the campus conveniently located near food, entertainment and cultural spots, UoSM offered not only academic growth but also a vibrant, well-rounded experience.

Outside the classroom, Yi Kiat enjoyed exploring Johor. She recommended the Johor Zoo, the historic Tan Cheng Lok Street for its famous herbal tea and Sutera Mall for affordable meals and shopping.

Looking back, Yi Kiat vividly recalls her first impression of UoSM: a modern, welcoming campus that felt personal and approachable. “The lecturers were caring and supportive. That’s something I’ll always value about UoSM.”

Abdul Qavi Syed Ahmed: Discovering His Passion Through Data

Coming to Malaysia from India to study a BSc in Business Analytics at UoSM was a journey filled with discovery and growth for Abdul Qavi Syed Ahmed.

He still remembers the exact moment he realised he had chosen the right path: his first introduction to machine learning. 

“When I found out the endless possibilities that machine learning offers, I realised this is what I’m meant to do,” he recalled.

One of the most inspiring classes for him was his very first data analytics project. Having little prior experience, he was awestruck by the power of data storytelling. 

“It was eye-opening learning that numbers and patterns could influence people’s decisions and communicate insights. This experience became the foundation for my entire academic and career journey.”

What surprised him most during his time at UoSM was how approachable and supportive his lecturers were. 

“They created an environment where we felt comfortable asking questions and seeking help, which made the learning experience more encouraging.”

Outside the classroom, he found UoSM’s location convenient and student-friendly, with food, clinics and grocery stores close by. His favourite spot was a student-favourite eatery near EcoWorld called Chow Chow.

“The convenience, safety and sense of community made it the perfect place to focus on my studies,” he remarked.

Arun Prakash: A Journey of Growth and Resilience

Arun Prakash recently graduated with a BSc in Computer Science and believes UoSM represented both a risk and a reward.

Joining during the pandemic, when the campus was still new and relatively unknown, he admitted, “It was a big chance, but UoSM exceeded my expectations. The experiences, friendships and community here are something I don’t think I would have found anywhere else,” he said.

His journey, however, was not without challenges. In his second year, Arun’s father passed away just before his exams, forcing him to balance family responsibilities, frequent travel between Kuala Lumpur and Johor, and his studies.

With the unwavering support of his family, friends and lecturers, especially Dr Sagaya Amalathas (former head of Computer Science), he persevered and graduated with first-class honours.

“With their encouragement and guidance, I was able to push forward. I couldn’t have done it without them.”

What stood out to Arun throughout his studies was the level of personal attention and care he received from UoSM’s faculty. 

“Even as I juggled the long-distance travel, my lecturers made sure I had the materials, notes, and supervision I needed to stay on track. This constant communication and understanding made all the difference.”

Beyond academics, Arun cherished his time in UoSM’s music room. What began with a simple keyboard grew into a collection of instruments, maintained by students who chipped in for repairs.

“It wasn’t just about the music,” he reflected. “It was about the community we built through it.”

Looking back, Arun’s time at UoSM was marked by resilience, growth, and belonging. Despite the challenges, he leaves with both achievements and memories that will stay with him forever.

Lian Chao Hooi: Exploring New Sights in the UK and Beyond

Chao Hooi pursued the MEng in Electrical and Electronics Engineering (2+2) programme at UoSM, completing his foundation and first two years in Malaysia before transferring to the UK campus for his final years, where he graduated in 2024.

Guided by his Yayasan Tenaga Nasional (YTN) scholarship, he feels grateful for the path it set him on. 

“I never regretted the decision as UoSM provided me with experiences and growth that I wouldn’t trade for anything,” he said. 

Although his first year was challenging, it laid the foundation for him to excel later. What he valued most at UoSM was the close-knit community.

“We weren’t just peers in the classroom, but also friends after class. Even the lecturers often joined us outside lessons, which made the learning experience warm and supportive.” This gave him confidence as he progressed in his studies.

When it came time to move to the UK campus, Chao Hooi’s transition was seamless. “It didn’t feel as tough as our entire batch moved together. We had each other’s backs,” he recalled.

While he noted that the UK campus felt slightly different, the academic resources and facilities were equally comprehensive and supportive as those on the Malaysian campus.

Above all, he credits his lecturers for their support: “They were approachable, professional and willing to go the extra mile to help us succeed.”

For future students, his advice is simple: be curious and never hesitate to ask questions. With approachable lecturers and a supportive community, he believes UoSM is the ideal place for both academic and personal growth.

At UoSM, Ambition Grows, Confidence Thrives, and Futures are Shaped.

The stories of Yi Kiat, Abdul Qavi, Arun and Chao Hooi reflect the heart of UoSM: resilience, curiosity and community.

Through academic rigour, the guidance of dedicated lecturers and a vibrant student life, each of them gained far more than a degree. They discovered the confidence, support and opportunities to shape their future.

As they step into the world, they carry not only academic excellence but also the values and experiences that make UoSM a place where ambition truly meets opportunity.