Begenova Saniya
Highly interactive community
Bachelor of Psychological Science and Business (started 2013)
1. Full name / Age / Nationality.
Begenova Saniya / 20 / Kazakhstan
2. How and why did you choose your degree program, and why Monash?
My elder brother advised Monash University to me – it is well known as one of the best universities in Malaysia even among those not studying here. I did my own research and found that this program combines Business (I was particularly interested in Finance) and Psychology. I thought this combination is unique, and it was only suggested in Monash University Malaysia. Also, value for money was very important for me, as Monash gives global-level top quality education for a very reasonable price.
3. Do you participate in extra-curricular activities in the university or in the community? If yes, how has it helped in your personal development ?
I am a committee member of Monash Cinematic Club. This helped me to socialise, improved my social interaction skills (I’ve met a lot of people) and gave me an interesting experience in event organisation. Overall, it was fun and gave me some proficiency in running multiple activities at the same time.
4. How do you find your degree program? What do you like best about it? What are the most challenging aspects of it?
I think my degree program is probably challenging, as it requires regular studying, analysing and working on my own, mastering my self-discipline. There are a lot of positive sides, but what I like the most is its demanding nature (it makes me confident that I am getting the knowledge I am supposed to get) and the highly interactive environment. In other words, lecturers (and tutors) are very friendly, always available and willing to help. It works as a huge incentive, helps with deeper understanding and provides required supports for students (who might be sometimes overwhelmed).
5. While at pre-university what challenges did you face and how did Monash help you overcome these challenges?
I had a lot of questions and queries about my degree and its requirements, as well as concerns about availability of scholarships. While in MUFY, Monash provided us with consultancies that gave us a wide range of important information that was required to make university decisions (e.g. choosing a program and choosing units to take during MUFY).
6. Whilst at Monash, did you have any industry exposure/placements? How has it made a difference to your own life or the life of others around you?
I had an internship at a bank. Although it was rather short, it helped me experience a real-working environment and to see what it looks like. I think it is important for students (especially business students) to get an internship and to get an idea of what they are going to do after graduation.
7. What do you love most about your student life at Monash?
There is always something going on. And there is a lot of support – peer support, support from administration and from lecturers/tutors. This helps to overcome any difficulties – whether with studies or with social life, - to enjoy university life, to be confident and simply have fun.
8. If you could provide one sentence of advice to future undergraduate students, what would it be?
Be ready to work (after all, that’s the point of getting degree), but never hesitate to ask for help and have fun – Monash gives it all.