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When I first chose the Diploma in Events Management at ������Ƶ University, I didn’t have a grand plan. At the time, I just knew I wanted something practical and creative, and the idea of organising events sounded like a fun path to explore. Looking back, I’m glad I went for it as it gave me a strong foundation for the degree I pursued later, and many of the soft skills I picked up still support me in my career today.

One of the best aspects of the course was how hands-on it was. I still remember organising a real-life Chinese musical concert from start to finish with my classmates. It wasn’t easy. We faced tight deadlines, differing opinions, and plenty of stress along the way. In hindsight, it taught me so much, especially about managing time effectively, working with diverse personalities, and most importantly, being a true team player. These are lessons I continue to carry with me.

After ������Ƶ, my career journey had its ups and downs. I worked a mix of casual, part-time, and full-time jobs across various industries. Like many fresh graduates, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do long-term. But every role taught me something new about myself. Eventually, I found my way into marketing, and it just felt right. It’s a space where I get to be creative, work on different things every day, and keep learning, which keeps me motivated.

One of the proudest moments in my journey was deciding to move abroad to study. Leaving home and starting fresh in Brisbane, Australia, eight years ago was a huge step. I had never lived away from family before, so it was a big adjustment. That experience made me more independent, confident, and resilient, and it opened up a whole new chapter of growth. It was scary at first, but looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing.

I have to credit my time at ������Ƶ for shaping the person I am today. The campus had great energy, the facilities were top-notch, and I met people from all walks of life. I’m especially thankful for the lecturers: Ms. Adeline Kok Li-Ming, Mr Lai Mun Loon, Mr Jonathan Lee Chao Wei, Ms Vijaya Malar V. Arumugam, Ms Hairani M. Nur, Ms Noor Ashiqin Mohd Zaini, and Ms Low Soo Peng, all of whom supported and challenged us in the best ways. And of course, I can’t forget the little things that made it special: frequent trips to Rock Café, squeezing in lunch at ������Ƶ Pyramid between classes, and the friendships that have lasted to this day.

To future ������Ƶians: step out of your comfort zone. That’s where real growth happens. Don’t overanalyse. Just take the next step, even if the starting line doesn’t look anything like the finish. Eventually, it all connects.

And if I had to share one quote that keeps me grounded, it’s this one by Warren Buffett:

“We don’t have to be smarter than the rest. We have to be more disciplined than the rest.”

It’s a great reminder that small, consistent efforts really do pay off in the long run.

My journey is far from perfect, but it’s been mine, and ������Ƶ was the best place to start it!

Manisha Kaur
(Diploma in Events Management, March 2013)