UM foundation students shine
That was Muhammad Umar Musa's advice when asked the message he wished to convey to recent Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) leavers.
The 19-year-old, who aspires to be an electrical engineer, has set his sights on pursuing a degree in electrical engineering after recently completing his foundation studies at Universiti Malaya (UM).
He was among the outstanding students celebrated at the '2025 Golden Night Ceremony for Foundation Students', held by the varsity's Centre for Foundation Studies in Science (PASUM) at a hotel on May 3.
The event served as a platform to honour students who excelled not only academically but also in leadership and co-curricular activities.
Muhammad Umar, who hails from Johor, was named the Best Life Sciences Student.
'I believe the first step to success in any course is to develop a genuine interest in all subjects,' he told StarEdu.
He also attributed his academic success to careful planning – studying upcoming topics, staying focused in class, and reviewing lessons each night.
Outside the classroom, he participated in varsity events to connect with his peers, served on the cleanliness committee of his residential college block, and jogged in the evenings to stay fit.
Another higher achiever, Ahmad Mahmood Abd Razak built his academic momentum by studying in focused environments like the library and creating his own notes – which became a hit among his friends.
Named the Best Physical Sciences Student, he was active in campus life, joining the Entrepreneurship Club, taking on committee roles, and even emceeing the 'Inter-Foundation Debate 2025'.
'They helped me grow in leadership and communication,' he said.
The 19-year-old Selangor native plans to pursue a career in actuarial science, combining his passion for mathematics and data analysis.
On his advice to students, he had this to say: 'Ask yourself, 'Is this what I want to do for the rest of my life?'
'The course you choose will shape your future emotionally, mentally and financially, so make that decision with self-awareness and intention,' he said.
Best Social Sciences Student Tong Qian Yu also emphasised consistency and active engagement as keys to holistic student growth.
'I achieved success in my course by studying consistently, actively engaging in lectures, completing my tutorial exercises, and seeking clarification from lecturers when needed,' she said.
The 19-year-old from Kuala Lumpur also experienced personal growth through activities such as participating in the Entrepreneurship Club, which helped her develop soft skills and confidence.
Looking ahead, she plans to pursue an accounting degree.
To SPM students, she advised: 'Listen to your heart, follow your passion, and go all out in whatever path you choose.'
Congratulating all the students in his speech, UM vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Seri Dr Noor Azuan Abu Osman, who officiated the ceremony, said PASUM is not merely an academic preparatory centre – it is a training ground for the soul.
'Here, students are nurtured not just in knowledge, but also in values,' he said.
He also urged students to continue striving beyond this milestone.
With the theme of the article in mind, carry out the following English language activities.
1 Where do you want to be in 10 years, and which course will take you closer to that vision? Reflect on this in a journal entry and then share your aspiration in class.
2 In pairs, role-play a senior student giving advice to a student on how to achieve holistic growth. What can you learn from other pairs' advice to apply to your own life?
The Star's Newspaper-in-Education (Star-NiE) programme promotes English language learning in primary and secondary schools nationwide. For Star-NiE enquiries, email starnie@thestar.com.my.
'Take full advantage of every opportunity offered. This university needs talent like you – not just to fill seats, but also to elevate the institution to greater and more meaningful heights,' he said.
Shasmeen Amirah, 19, a PASUM student, is a participant of the BRATs Young Journalist Programme run by The Star's Newspaper-in-Education (Star-NiE) team. For updates on the BRATs programme, go to facebook.com/niebrats.
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