Dream Big, Start Here: Athena Siow’s Harvard Story Begins with Yayasan UEM Global Scholarship.

Athena shared her passion for sustainable energy at the International Sustainable Energy Summit (ISES) 2024.

In 2023, Athena wrote an essay that changed everything.

It wasn’t just another school assignment or a college prep draft; it was an essay that kickstarted a whirlwind of interviews, nervous anticipation, and finally, a phone call that would rewrite her future. That call welcomed her into one of Malaysia’s most prestigious pre-university scholarships: the Yayasan UEM Global Scholarship (YUEM-GS).

“That moment marked the beginning of a journey that would reshape what I thought was possible,” she shared.

Where It All Began: Learning About YUEM-GS

When Athena found out about YUEM-GS from her high school mentor, everything just clicked.

“I’ve been very fortunate to have met mentors who showed me that it’s possible to pursue higher education and get a scholarship,” she said. “That’s something I’ve been working toward throughout high school.”

“It was my chance to learn beyond borders, to gain global exposure, and to connect with peers from around the world. The opportunity to go abroad, to explore courses I’m passionate about, and to grow alongside peers from different countries—that was too good to pass up.”

Athena’s Second Family in KYUEM

Stepping into Kolej Yayasan UEM (KYUEM) and meeting the other scholars was like entering a different universe for Athena. Surrounded by a tight-knit cohort of brilliant minds, Athena found her scholarmates—“my second family,” she called them.

“Beyond the academic rigour, it was the energy of the place that stood out to Athena. Imagine being with future doctors, economists, climate advocates and tech leaders, all under one roof. And the best part? Everyone came from a different part of Malaysia, bringing fresh perspectives to every conversation.

“It’s just a very concentrated bubble of really motivated youth,” she explained. “Learning from their lived experiences—seeing different perspectives—helps me grow so much as a person.”

The Scholarship That Cares Beyond Grades

YUEM-GS isn’t your average scholarship. It doesn’t just cut tuition fees and wish you luck. “It invests in you,” Athena said.

From personal development workshops to leadership camps, from check-ins about your wellbeing to full-on support for passion projects, the programme is built on one big belief: that the next generation of leaders deserves more than just financial aid, they deserve a support system.

Athena (first from left) at the 18th UN Climate Change Conference of Youth (COY18), held in 2023 in the UAE.

“The scholarship officers don’t just ask about grades. They check on our family, our well-being, and what we’re passionate about. It’s like having your own team of cheerleaders,” Athena shared.
When Athena began advocating for climate change, Yayasan UEM didn’t just nod in approval. They backed her. Full-on.

“They sponsored my trip to the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Dubai. It was surreal,” she said. “Getting to discuss climate justice and education with global youth and bringing those insights back to Malaysia was unforgettable.”

How Did This All Lead to Harvard University?

Through sheer grit and the space to explore. The financial freedom from YUEM-GS allowed Athena to focus on essays, extracurriculars, and opportunities she once thought were far-fetched.

“The US application process is no joke. But having a team that encouraged me to push further and supported me throughout made all the difference,” she said.

And when that final admission letter arrived? “It wasn’t just a personal win. It was a proud moment for the community that had my back every step of the way.”

A Message to Students With Big Dreams

As Athena gears up for her next chapter at Harvard, she is already thinking about how to give back.

“A lifelong principle I hold on to is: keep learning, keep improving for your community, and inspire others,” she said. “It fulfils me to know that something I do could encourage someone else to believe in their dreams too.”

Athena (3rd from right) during the KYUEM Summit, where she was one of the panellists, discussing youth leadership and nation-building initiatives.

To every young Malaysian out there dreaming big but unsure where to start, Athena has some advice: “Be resourceful. Ask for help. And most importantly, enjoy the process.”

Athena’s story is more than an inspiring tale of academic success. It’s a reminder of what happens when talent meets opportunity—and when scholarships like Yayasan UEM Global go beyond funding and commit to nurturing the whole person.

Because sometimes, all it takes is one essay to have a shot at your dream.