More than 70% of students in the Taylor’s American Degree Transfer Program (ADP) are continuing their higher education at Tier 1 universities in the United States in September 2015, namely Cornell University, San Diego State University, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. Through the Certificate Presentation held at Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus, the batch of students had 6 ‘Summa Cum Laude’ (with highest honor) achievers, 11 ‘Magna Cum Laude’ (with great honor) and 19 ‘Cum Laude’ (with praise) students.
The group comprised of 195 students, who are undergoing their degrees in Business (Actuarial Science), Engineering, Computer Science and Liberal Arts (Political Science) to name a few. This year, there were 61 scholars of which, 2 were from Bank Negara, 33 students with Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) and 26 students with Petronas. Each year, ADP has two Certificate Presentation ceremonies for students in the Summer and Fall semesters.
Moving abroad and being away from home may be difficult, however a normal part of students’ development into adulthood. With the help of technology, keeping in touch with family and friends has never been easier. However, being too connected because of the ‘fear of missing out’ can keep anyone from utilizing time spent exploring their new space instead. According to Dean, Taylor’s University American Degree Transfer Program (ADP), Dr. Andy Nazarechuk, people are being trained to stop what they are doing because there was a notification on their smartphone.
“As future international students studying in the U.S., I urge everyone increase their fear on missing out on the education opportunities provided to them, the fear of missing out on exciting things which will experience on their journey, the fear of missing out on many friends and most of all, the fear of missing out on opportunities to interact with professors during their time in university,” he said. Dr. Andy also reminded students to learn more about their passion and to study to develop skills to master their craft during their remaining time in university.
This year, the celebration was graced by Professor Dato’ Dr. Hassan Said, Vice-Chancellor & President at Taylor’s University, where he shared his advice to students, “Experience in university will be the most meaningful part of your life. While studying in university, you are responsible for your time. You need to manage your time to study, to play, to sleep and to have fun. You will never get this type of luxury and flexibility after you enter the workforce.” Going overseas, Professor Hassan said he was proud to show the world how Taylor’s students are developed individuals and future leaders into the universities they are about to move into.
“I am very confident that you will make us proud in universities you will continue your education. I am sure that you have made the right choice by choosing the Taylor’s American Degree Program for your tertiary education. The quality of staff, infrastructure, support and commitment from everyone at our university, has made our ADP program one of the most successful programmes in the country,” he said.
Valedictorian, Mabel Lu is pursuing her degree in Business and transferring to University of Minnesota Twin Cities recalled her time and lecturers’ quirks during ADP. “I am grateful there we have built a close-knit community offline and online during our time here. I am excited that, as we pursue our journey in education, we will continue to be in each other’s’ lives through online means.”
