As most of you may already know, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) has once again returned with their UKM International Bachelor Degree Programme! Applications are now open for direct intake in June 2020. You can read more about it by clicking here and also check out our FAQ article by clicking here.

Image via Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia

Now, what better way to know about the programme than from the students themselves? Afterschool had the wonderful opportunity to speak with not one, but two students currently pursuing their bachelor’s degree at UKM under the International Degree Programme!

Siti Anis Natasya binti Ahmad Tarmizee, 19, is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Genetic. Hilda Helena binti Abdul Halim, 20, is pursuing a degree in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) at UKM. Curious about what the programme entails? See what they have to say below.

How did you come to know about the university before enrolling?

According to Siti Anis Natasya, she heard about the university after one of her friends said that she was enrolling in it. She studied the locations of both campuses, what courses are offered in each, the facilities and certification of the courses that she was applying for and found that the information was everything a good university would have.

Hilda Helena considered her university options based on what her ideal employment prospects could look like and if the university matched her academic and professional interests.

What attracted you to pick this university? How did UKM stand out to you?

Siti Anis Natasya cites the reputation of UKM and its ranking as one of the top universities in Malaysia as the major reason for her choice. She believes that studying in UKM can put her on a better level, as a high-reputation university is sure to produce high-reputational graduates.

Similarly, Hilda Helena also credits UKM’s academic reputation for her choice and feels that it is a place that would help her prepare for post-university life in the real world by being in a diverse student body. Since most of the professors have real-world experience outside of academia, Hilda Helena feels that she has developed personal growth beyond the classroom knowledge.

How convenient is your campus in terms of accessibility, location, transport etc.?

For Siti Anis Natasya, the campus is very convenient as she does not need to go out frequently to get anything she needs because UKM provides all the facilities, especially those catered for students. As the campus is located in a rural area, it is also not too busy, which proves it a peaceful studying environment. On top of that, students are also provided with free buses for us to travel within the campus. Food is also available everywhere on the campus, and the prices are quite cheap. Siti Anis Natasya notes that this is definitely a plus for food lovers like her!

Hilda Helena also highlights the facilities provided by UKM such as the library, students’ health centre, accommodation, sports and recreation centre, and student society. Internet connection is provided everywhere on campus. She claims that the green landscape of UKM provides an environment that is conducive to a learning environment. Everything comes in handy and with spaces that enlighten and educate, there is a little need to step a foot off the campus.

How would you describe your course to a 17-year-old?

Siti Anis Natasya, who is currently studying Genetics, describes it as a course where student learn about heredity, the differences and resemblances between organisms, how they are affected by environment, and of course how they are controlled and developed.

Hilda Helena, on the other hand, is studying Teaching English as Second Language (TESL). TESL teaches the students the basic approach towards making the courses more effective, teaching methodologies and learning techniques for English. She adds that TESL grants you the eligibility to teach English at both private and government schools.

What words of advice would you give to those who are intending to pursue the same course as you?

Siti Anis Natasya’s advice goes for anyone interested in Genetics: “I would say, go for it. It might not be that well-known, but I bet this course is very fun for those who love to explore new things. To be honest, learning all of this is very mesmerizing as we go into the very details and we find out how amazingly the organism works. You will realise that the smallest thing you learned about in school can be something so valuable that you will appreciate how amazing it is.”

Hilda Helena touches on why students should choose TESL: “You should pick this course if you enjoy it because someone interested in the course will engage more with it and be better at the subject. Make sure that your choice of the course is part of a well-considered long-term plan. Besides that, do establish good communication with your professor, review your material before and after class, have proper time management and take care of your body.”

Interested yet? Head over to our FAQ article by clicking here, and check the entry requirements for the UKM International Bachelor Degree Programme.Once you’re all set and ready to apply, you can go ahead and make your application by CLICKING HERE. All the best in your application!