Striving for Excellence
10 June 2024
by Feng Xingyu
PhD student
School of Business
1. Tell us about this scholarship.
The Graduate Research Excellence Scholarship (GRES) is provided by Monash University Malaysia for doctoral students with distinguished academic achievements, research results, and/or previous research experience. This scholarship covers tuition fee remission and a monthly allowance. On the one hand, it serves to recognise the research talents of the students. On the other hand, it represents an expectation that they should dedicate their efforts to research and generate superior output.
2. In what ways do you believe this scholarship aligns with your academic and career aspirations?
My doctoral research focuses on how leaders can enhance the effectiveness of a team and increase resilience and vitality in the ever-changing business environment. I hope to become an expert in this field, to provide theoretical support for the decision-making of the government and enterprises.
Receiving this scholarship is a personal symbol, recognition, and honour, and I may mention it in my resume and job talk. Therefore, I may have more opportunities to participate in international exchanges and seminars and to have access to a broader community of scholars, practitioners, and industry leaders. In addition, the values upheld by this scholarship, such as the pursuit of innovation, excellence, and broad impact on the community, resonate deeply with my own personal and professional spirit. I urge myself to succeed academically and make meaningful contributions to a broader community and society through my research and teaching efforts.
3. What motivated you to pursue this particular scholarship opportunity?
Before pursuing higher education, I worked as a researcher in a national research institute, enjoying favourable conditions and high status. However, the desire to immerse myself in higher education and fully engage in academics always lingered in my mind, prompting me to seek opportunities to realise this goal. It isn't easy to make such a decision because I will give up my enviable position and lose my source of income in the next few years. However, Monash University is among the top 100 universities globally, and these years at Monash University Malaysia will be a new starting point for my life. Despite facing intense competition, I eventually submitted my application. Fortunately, I received a formal offer along with a scholarship.
4. In what ways has the scholarship played a role in shaping your overall university experience?
Firstly, the financial support provided by scholarships alleviates the burden of tuition and other educational expenses. This type of financial relief allows me to concentrate on my studies fully. Moreover, the recognition and prestige of scholarships have bolstered my confidence and motivation. Knowing that my academic achievements are acknowledged and supported by a reputable scholarship program fills me with pride and a sense of responsibility. This motivation translates into my heightened commitment to learning and a drive to achieve excellent results in academic pursuits.
5. Are there specific challenges or milestones that stand out as crucial to your growth?
The biggest challenge is to stick to the beliefs in constant denial and keep working hard. Due to many factors, my doctoral program lasted for three years (in other words, I failed for three years in a row). Throughout this period, the emails I regularly received were filled with words like negation, denial, regret, and apologies. Initially, I experienced feelings of anxiety, depression, and self-doubt. However, I soon realised that indulging in these emotions served no purpose other than hindering my progress. Instead, I continued with my program and research, exerting the utmost effort, which effectively mitigated these emotions.
I gradually understood and accepted that facing denial and encountering failures are inherent aspects of scientific research and life. Succumbing to difficulties would not improve the situation on its own. On the contrary, it was imperative to persist in our efforts, remain vigilant for potential opportunities, and decisively seize them when they appear.
6. Drawing from your experience, what advice would you give to students considering applying for scholarships?
Any scholarship or funded research opportunity (e.g., doctoral program) offered by Monash University is highly competitive. Several factors will be comprehensively considered, including standardised scores, research experience and outputs, letters of recommendation, and more. In this regard, I advise students to devise a thorough plan for their studies and life as early as possible. Subsequently, they should be fully prepared in all aspects and systematically complete tasks in strict accordance with the plan. Eventually, they can await the due reward for their diligent efforts.