Sunway Friendship Week Launch (28/8/19)

There is a Mandarin saying which says "We may have a lot of friends, all we need is true friends" (朋友不须要多，真心就够了). We may seem to have a lot of friends, but how many of us will stay by each other's side? Behold! I present to you Sunway Friendship Week! At the start of the celebration, I could hear our Sunway 24 Festive Drums beating to kick off the event. I was still in time of the celebration when i made my way down to the university foyer to catch all the actions!

Dr. Elizabeth Lee, the senior executive director of Sunway Education Group, was giving an opening speech. Besides Sunway is commited to the 17 SDGs, what is the 18th goal if were to add one? Any guesses? The answer is friendship! I turned around to see students were lining up to get their "Friendship Passport" from Sunway Lagoon, as for me I had a special privilege to get the passport.But not today cause it's a quite a queue! I didn't want to wait for hours!

To pump up the event, Sunway Lagoon dancers performed "Proud Mary". By looking their outfits, I really wanted to kick off my shoes and having fun in the sun! Since it's also C & S week for the August semester, it's even more lively! I guess you can say it's the "Most Happening Campus?" Sunway Friendship Week was also a family affair for me and my sister, our cousin, Sandhya, performed an Indian cultural dance.

If you want to make friends on campus quickly, head over to our campus' student council booth where you can get to know your new friends through our very own friendship box. To be fair, I picked three randomly from the box. The next question that most of you will ask: Do I have any friends on campus? The answer is yes, I do have friends! I'll pick the best three of my friendship moments on campus.

 First off, it's none other than Sunway University Buddhist Society (SBS). I joined the society since my college days, but not until in 2016, which I was going through a difficult time that year. I decided to "officially" joined in the society, when they were having "Hope Forum"- which was some sort of "distraction" and to get off my mind off a little. Fast forward to three years, I'm now a part of the committee!

The second story is kind of sweet and heartwarming. I don't know about my fellow readers, but it's up to anyone to decide the theme of the story. Pamela (I called her Pam for short), and I met during our short semesters. I was in the third semester of my first year while she was in her second semester. We bonded through a ring which sat on my finger at that time, and it was made out of a pebble stone. After that we knew that we were studying the same course which is Communication- we'll be seeing each other more on campus.

My favourite moment of us was our ice cream adventure. I had a rough week since the start of the semester, I was trying to get over the academic failure. To put that frown upside down, we headed to Family Mart on the first day of semester. Pam and I can share just about anything! I mean anything!

The third and final segement of my friendship story: You know there is a saying that boy meets girl kind of fanstasy, fall in love and live happily ever after? Not for Ren Khai and me! We met at a PCV booth, where they were promoting an event. The first thing that Ren Khai said to me that I reminded a friend of his who loved singing too! We became each other's support system every now and then, mostly on studies and relationship, sometimes friendships too. We did work together to help a friend of mine to overcome a mental health situation. I would say we did make an amazing team!

There you have it! My three friendships story in a nutshell! How do you define friendship in your own way? Do you have any friendship story that you would like to share? What makes a strong friendship?

A shout out to all my friends in university, I'm so lucky to have you guys by my side. We may not see each other but when times in need, I know I will have you. Here's to a lifelong friendship! Since our Malaysian 62nd Independence Day is coming up, wishing all Malaysians Selamat Hari Kemerdekaan! 

C & S Carnival Cycle 1 2019 (2/4/19-4/4/19)

Looking for a club or society, but don't know which one to choose from? Head over to Sunway University College's Clubs and Societies Carnival, the first ever big extra-curriculum activity on campus! Over 60 clubs and societies for potential members to choose from. As for me, I'm in the Sunway University Buddhist Society (SBS).

An hour before the carnival, I make my way to the college boulevard. I see everyone is carrying banners, posters and bunting for their respective clubs. I have trouble looking for the society's booth, but luckily with the help from student council, I mange to settle down. I almost fall, because the table is unstable. I inform my fellow exco members that I have already arrived at the booth, just need to wait for them to get the supplies to set up.

I take out the bluetooth speaker to blast some music from the iPad on my playlist. Not long the speakers at the stage area are blasting throughout the boulevard, so I have to keep the BT speaker into the box. Sometimes people will get confuse, when they visit our booth and listening to both music at the same time. I have to rush for Investor Relations class, I inform the group that I'm heading off soon.

My class ends at 1.45pm, so I head back to the booth to help out until the end of the day. Moving on to the second day, the status of the recruitment still remain the same. None of them drops by, but we have a student drop by to sign up as a member, at least is a good sign right? We are also having a second musical drama: A Night of Musical Drama 2.0, but we need people who can work on behind-the-scenes with us. Every student who passes by our booth, we try to stop them in their tracks but they just reject. Oh well!

Luckily Sunway University Chinese Cultural Society comes by to promote their upcoming stage play- Epaniour, which is happening on 25 April 2019 (mark your calendars!). They will help Buddhist Society to promote our musical drama too! Also I have a treat from Sunway HPAIR with their lemonade with just RM1! I guess it's good to treat yourself after all that hard work.

The weather is not nice to us on the second day of the carnival as we are approached by a rain storm, we have to pack up but it didn't my dampen spirits as I can relax after a long day. I head to the library to relax myself and also need to get some important things done like the upcoming Malaysia National Model UN (MNMUN) which is happening this Friday.

On the last and final day of C & S carnival, we are quite relax a little. Before the day ends, the student council drops by and ask how many members that we have recruited throughout the three days, we tell them that only one student sign up for our society. As time passes by till 4pm, the student council announces to keep all belongings and return them to Student Life.

After the weekly SBS meeting, we head over to the newly opened Sweet Gather to have a meal after a tiring three-day recruitment and we celebrate our president, Jing Ci's birthday too! What a way to end the first C & S of the year. If you miss out our recruitment day, join us on our welcoming night on 18 April 2019. It's not too late to join the SBS big family.

SBS Welcoming Night
Date: 18 Apr 2019 (Thursday)
Time: 6pm-9.30pm
Venue: The Lunch Box, Mezzanine floor, Sunway University

*Vegetarian meal will be served

For more information, look out for our official FB page: Sunway University Buddhist Society-SBS

1970 Oriental Spring Roadshow 忆旧1970造势活动（14/1/19）

朗朗的读声，在繁忙的大学大厅，怎么会出现财神爷的身影呢？是不是为校园添加好意头啊？学生们穿着红彤彤的学会会服，让主角财神爷站在中间。《财神到》一响起，把繁忙的大学大厅热闹起来，感觉新春的脚步越来越近。我最喜欢的是《活出自己快乐Whoopee》，歌词有一段：“大吉利统统送给你，财神会一直照着你……” 双威大学独中校友联谊会校园新春造势活动正式开跑！

第二场的新年开场舞蹈在学院的林荫道（boulevard）结束后，司仪和学生们一起互动。只要回答简单的问题，就会从财神本身送出的福袋，让这新一年得到暖暖的祝福！碰巧我在司仪们和财神的面前，不然碰一下运气吧！司仪们出的问题是校园活动的地点，我回答是大学大厅和学院林荫道同步举行。“恭喜你答对了！” 财神爷亲自把福袋送到手中，好开心同时感到新春的祝福。

第一个演出是扇子舞，接下来是双威大学好声音的选手们来助兴，其一位是我的音乐搭档兼好友—— Derrick庄伟楗。我摇身一变成 “迷妹”！还有《忆旧1970》的主题曲也首次公开歌唱给大家听哦！舞台确实最佳的地方来展现出魅力，属于自己的歌声的舞台。

虽然我没有留到最后，当我离开林荫道，一众的舞蹈学生献上《Dancing Queen》。当然大学大厅的一系列小活动也不能忽略，我在竹牌上写新春的愿望。如果觉得不够，还可以当天活动到许愿池许下新年愿望。

以1970年代为主，让大家感受当年代的新春气氛，与全校迎接棒嘟嘟的一年！我们不见不散！

Event: 1970 The Oriental Spring 
Date: 22 Jan 2019-23 Jan 2019 (Tuesday & Wednesday) 
Time: 11am-5pm 

更多详情请浏览双威大学独中校友联谊会校园新春活动官方社交网页
FB: Sunway University Chinese New Year Celebration

Instagram: @su_the1970orientalspring

Sunway PCV Mental Health Camapign: I'm Only Human (19/9/18)

It's time to put my passion- mental health, into the test! Sunway Peer Counselling Volunteer (PCV) is having a mental health awareness campaign which is starting from today (19 Septtember 2018) till tomorrow (20/9/18). I didn't go to the opening ceremony, as I have some assignments to get them done.

Since there is no one around the stage area, I just sit there. The stage is my favourite place in the world! I can think about life and the challenges that I've gone through, a question struck me: How can I normalise mental health? Well, we just have to find out later at the forum. After my class ends, I head over to the Art Gallery at Level 1 for Walk in My Shoes. I bump into my friends who are also going to the session as well, why not join them to make up the party?

Walk in My Shoes is stepping into a person's world who is suffering from mental health, we are taken to each scene to feel the pain and sorrow. I almost cried and my heart sinks at one point, because I can feel the main character is calling out for help but none of them is willing to step out for her and give a voice to say that: "Hey, it's okay! We got you!"

Participants are taken into a room to watch videos on mental health which are highlighted from key peoples such as Subang Jaya state assembly person, YB Michelle Ng, Sunway Education Group Senior Executive, Dr. Elizabeth Lee and Student LIFE director, Ms. Lee Siok Ping. Once we are out from the gallery, we are given a free gift but I want the soft toy because it is so cuddly and cute!

As night falls, time to hit the dance floor at the university foyer! Hanis and I dance to Bill Ray Cyrus' Achy Breaky Heart, which is not easy! There is a slight difference in the dance steps, compare to the one I learned in primary school. The line dance session ends with the chicken dance. I even have a one-on-one chat with YB Michelle Ng herself on mental health. She recgornised me as I was a delegate at SUNMUN last month, she officiated the event.

Hanis and I make our way to JC1 to attend the mental health forum. The first two rows seats are for the VIPs. We have speakers from the fire and rescue department, police force, medical experts as well as from members of parliament, YB Hannah Yeoh, the Deputy Minister Of Woman and Community, and YB Wong Chen. Each of the speaker talks about the awareness and issues of mental health.

Counselling is one thing but the concepts of that in Malaysians’ minds is: If one goes to seek counsel, that means they have a problem. YB Hannah mentions in her message that counselling is just a follow up on a basis, to keep track of a progress. I went to counselling once back in high school, I’m still a good student. The floor is opened up for some Q & A session from the audience, I’m in the second batch of the questions. My question is: How can we normalise mental health among peers on campus? I have a chat with Ms. Lee on that question.

After the forum, a group photo is taken to commerate the important event. On the way out, I have a small chat with YB Hannah and a photo opportunity too! We almost forgot our bags which are left in the auditorium. Oops!

Actually mental health is not that bad, it's how we perceive the issue in our own point of views. How do you define mental health in your own terms? If I can make a change to normalise mental health, you can as well! I'm going to continue my passion in mental health.

C & S Carnival Cycle 2 2018 (4/9/18-6/9/18)

Hey guys, university is resumed for three weeks now, everyone is settling into their new semester. Since most of the things are in control, the next question is: What should I do next? Are there anything interesting activities to join on campus? Fear not, Sunway University College Clubs and Societies (C & S) carnival is back for the second time around!

Before I headed to Sunway Buddhist Society's booth at the college boulevard, I dropped by at the Sunway University Chinese Cultural Society to renew my membership. After that, it's off to the booth! I had a hard time to look for the booth as we didn't set up our bunting but I did recgornise the treasurer, Sil Leong, who was doing his homework. When I settled down, I realised I was way behind my schedule for my online work., since no one came by to the booth.

My friend, Jia Xin, dropped by at the booth for awhile. He asked whether members needed to pay fees in the society. No, in Buddhist Society students don't need to pay anything! Just register will do the trick! My shift was only one and a half hour, I needed to head to my final class of the day- Psychology in Communication. In the class, we just need to form a set of questionnaire for our upcoming project. When class ended, I headed outside of the LT classrooms at the ground floor, to catch up with some homework.

I had an activity after university hours, I watched the Sunway University Cheer team practice. I even learned the counting of the chant. It was easy, I could say. Even though I couldn't join the cheer team due to my physical condition, that didn't stop me to have a little "school spirit" after a long day in university.

On the second day, Jia Xin convinced me to join Sunway University Marketing Society and the Psychology Club. I was a bit hesitant to join, "C'mon Katelyn, just join in!" Jia Xin persuaded. "I'll think about it, thank you!" I said. I dropped by at the Sunway Peer Counselling Volunteer (PCV), they are going to have an event called "I'm Only Human"- a mental health campaign. I was interested as I have a passion in mental health.

I even dropped by to say hi to Ming Han, who is in the Sunway Chinese Independent Alumni Club (CISA). He is the one who taught me on the drums. Unfortunately, we can't play them as Student Life restricted us from distracting students who were having classes on campus. Guess what? SunVoice held by the Chinese Cultural Society came back for its third season. I didn't make the cut to the top 10 to represent the university, I was happy to make a come back to center stage.

On the third and final day of the C & S carnival, I hung out at the foyer as it was inconvenient for me to go over to the boulevard, since it was raining and the floor was slippery. We had performances from Sunway Dance Club and Sunway Chinese Orchestra to live up the mood! There we have it, the three-day of C & S has ended.

If you are interested to join any of the clubs and societies, be sure to drop by an email or follow their social media accounts to give you an up-to-date on the activities they are going to have on campus! I hope you have found the right club or society that suits the inner you to shine on campus.

C & S Carnival Cycle 1 2018 (3/4/18-4/4/18)

  The C & S (Clubs & Societies) Carnival is back on the road to recruit to new members. I head down to the college boulevard as I'm performing for Sunway University Buddhist Society. I get to know at the last minute as I don't need the first three songs. Just the song that I pick, if we have still enough time, I might have a bonus song for everyone.

  At 12.00pm, we head over to the stage for some sound checks for the microphone to make sure everything is in place. Yee Tang, the event director of the society says: "When you are done with your performances, promote our society, okay?" I give a thumbs up. The first two songs are Before Finding the Meaning of Life (在找到生命的意义以前) and Bhrama of My Heart.

  It's my turn to take the stage, all eyes are on me when I take my place. I perform a song titled Forgive (原谅) along with sign language. I performed 10 years ago when I was in Year 5 at a teachers' day performance in primary school. 10 years later, I'm bringing it back the feeling. Turns out the students like the performance. As a bonus, I sing The Friends in Life (生命中的朋友). After the performance, I'm back to your ordinary university girl.

  We also have a little game as well. It's called "What's in the Box". Don't worry, it's nothing scary! It's just soft toys and some stuff that we use in everyday life such as nail clipper, comb, stapler etc. That's the end of Day 1. It's off to Day 2 and final day of the first cycle of C & S Carnival 2018

  Day 2 get a lot more interesting than yesterday's activities. In conjunction with their upcoming third annual Chinese Cultural Night, Sunway University Chinese Cultural Society (SUCCS) promote their event by inviting deejays from Astro's new Mandarin station- Go Xuan! to live up the atmosphere. There are performances as well from last year's SunVoice 2017 top 12 finalists.

  I realise that I've been off duty for two hours! Oh no, I'm gonna be in hot water! I rush back to the college boulevard as fast as I can. Luckily, no students visit our booth so that is a sigh of relief! Phew!

  I walk up and down along the boulevard just to get my blood circulate, "Kar Marn (袈文)!" I turn around to see my friend, Ming Han, who is from Sunway Chinese Independent School Alumni Club (CISA). He teaches me some new beats of the 24 season drums. Although we can't use the drums, we use the table instead. Some beats I get it right and some are wrong, but I can learn the new beat in no time as long as I practice constantly.

  That's the end of C & S carnival cycle 1 2018! We'll see you at the next C & S carnival in September! You can sign up any time if you are interested to join any of the clubs on the campus. Drop by an email or give a "like" on their Facebook pages. 

C & S Carnival Cycle 2 2017 (5/9/17-7/9/17)

  The final cycle of C&S Carnival 2017 at Sunway University College has come to an end. Let's take a look at the highlights during the three-day event.

  On the first day, everyone was getting ready to get their booths set up at the NUB foyer (New University Building) and some of them were at the college's boulevard. On the eve of the event, we had to attend a briefing to draw lots for our location to set up our respective booths. Unfortunately for Sunway University Buddhist Society (SBS), we didn't get a good spot as most of us were at a youth camp and studying for exams especially ACCA students. As a result it was last-minute planning.

  After my lecture ended at 10.00am, I waited at the Sunway Chinese Culture Society's booth. Around 10.30am, Chia Tee and I headed to the boulevard. Our booth location was right at the end of the boulevard, near to the Graduate Centre (GC). I took care of the booth until 12.00pm because I had a PR lecture to attend. Luckily, the lecture ended an hour early so I went back to the booth to check on the progress but sadly no one came by. But at the end of day 1 of the carnival, I got my hands on the 24 seasons drums (In Mandarin: 二十四节铃鼓).

   The second day I dropped by the booth for awhile after I took the mini quiz for Organisational Communication. As every Wednesday, I had a full day of tutorials from morning till afternoon. Luckily I got the quiz done early, so I did have a little time to spare. I was planning to practice the drums when the tutorial ended, sadly they were already kept for tomorrow. I even auditioned for SunVoice Season 2 held by the Chinese Culture Society, I didn't make the cut to the top 30 but it's okay! At least I had the chance to be on stage.

   The third and final day of the C&S carnival, SBS decided to take a day off because during the last two days, our response from the students were not active and due to our location of booth, it was not the strategic place, so I helped out at Chinese Culture Society. Since it's located at the NUB foyer, it's an opportunity for me to practice the drums and learned some of the new beats from the students of Sunway CISA (Chinese Independent School Alumni).

  Well, that's all for now! We'll see you at the next C&S Carnival in 2018!

SBS Welcoming Dinner: Linking Boundaries (6/4/17)

   My last lecture ended at 5.30pm, which was half an hour early. I texted Cynthia that she can pick me up from Hall 2, Graduate Centre but she replied me that she was busy welcoming guests at the Art Gallery. Along with my course mates, we walked along the canopy walk where it led us to the university building. We were in mid track, then I saw Cynthia walking towards me. "Hey, Katelyn! Are you ready?" she asked. Without hesitation, I said:"Yes, yes I am!" As Junta passed my bag to Cynthia, I thanked him as well as other friends for help.

   We took the lift up to the first floor. When we arrived, everyone was busy doing some last-minute checkking to make sure everything was on top form. My duty of the night is simple- collecting tickets when guests arrived and a form for them to sign up before heading in. While I was doing the registration, I saw Loke Zai (young boy in Cantonese) was sipping a cup of peach tea. "Katelyn, would you like to have one?" he asked. "I would love to, thank you!" I said. He then turned to Cynthia whether she would want a cup as well. "Yes, please," she said.

  Not long after Loke Zai came out with two cups of peach tea. I went to the wash room to get myself clean up. Cynthia accompanied me, Chia Tee was inside practising her opening line as she is the host of the night. After cleaning myself up, I asked the girls whether my dress it's okay. Chia Tee said the inside layer of my dress was a bit messy so we headed back in to the washroom to get fix my dress. I don't want a wardrobe malfunction especially on welcoming dinner. Earlier that day,  Loke Zai complimented that I looked pretty.

  Well back to work! I was doing the registration half way, Hon Pong- the President of the Society came to me, he said:"Katelyn, it's time to go in," Cynthia took over my shift as I was guided inside by Hon Pong. Chia Tee was giving a welcome speech and a brief introduction to our speakers of the night- Bro. Tan Huat Chye and Dato Charlie Chia. They are both from my hometown- Malacca, yay! Okay, okay back to the scene. Both of the speakers gave good advices to us.

  Whatever you do, you have to do with passion, interest and full heart, that will give you a 100% success. Besides that, never ever compare yourself with other people, do it at your own pace. It's time for the juniors to meet the seniors. I was lucky to reunite with my seniors and some I've got to finally to meet them in person! I heard a lot about them since joining the big family.

  What's with a welcoming night without any music? iGemz definitely rock the night! A group photo was taken to capture the memorable moment. It's back to the mingling. I'm very happy the event is a success! Thanks to the people of the SBS Team 2017 for giving a 100% effort to make it happen! I would like to welcome the new members to join our big family!

C&S Carnival: Part 1 (4/4/17-6/4/17)

  It's my favourite time of the year on campus- The C&S carnival, or also known as Clubs and Societies carnival. It's event where students can find out their favourite extra curricular activities on campus from sports to cultural to  music, you name them! The event marks my first campus event as a university student.

  During past C&S carnivals, it was usually held at the college cafeteria's Energy Hub and some booths were even held at the Student Life (formerly known as Student Service Department). All the clubs and societies were held together at the same place, we could walk around and look for other clubs if you're not on duty to take care of the booth or boredom takes over you (I'm kidding!).

  We have a new Boulevard Area, some of the clubs and societies' booth are held while most of them are at the NUB (New University Building) foyer. Sunway Chinese Cultural Society is going to have a stage play called The Dream Catcher  on 12 April 2017 for their 2nd Annual Chinese Cultural Night. Besides that. Sunway University Japanese Club (SUJC) is having Undokai (Japanese sports). Chinese Independent School Alumni (CISA) having their 24 season drum performance on Thursday, I get to try my hands on the drums. It's not bad for the first try as I came from a national type Chinese primary school.

While us Sunway University Buddhist Society is promoting on our upcoming welcoming dinner!  For the very first time, we are having our first themed dinner called Linking Boundaries! Sounds exciting isn't it? We want to show our new members that our society is just more than that, it's a place you will call home in years to come. When a student signs up for our society, we give them an origami lotus or a paper crane as a "blessing". Some students just walk past by even though we try to slow them down to promote our welcoming dinner. You know, whatever works.

  As Cynthia and I are taking care of the booth, our campus' mascot, Samson the Sun Bear comes to say hi to us. Guess he is checking out which society or club that is suitable for him. At the end of the C&S carnival, we manage to get 30 students to join our welcoming dinner which is a good sign for our first ever event in 2017. I can't wait to see all of them!                        

Come and drop by at our booth at the Boulevard Area (just below the college linkage bridge) to find out more on our upcoming activities. I'll be posting on the welcoming dinner too, stay tune!

First Day of Univerity (22/3/17)

  After a four-month break, it's time for me to head back to university. Today I'm heading back to Sunway University College for the first time as a university student. We reach the campus at 8.10am, I take a good look at the campus, nothing has changed much at the foyer. I head to the Monash University Foundation Year (MUFY) academic office since there is nothing to do at the foyer.


  As I'm about to take the lift, I bump into Ms. Haslina. " Hi, Ms. Has!" I say. "Hi Kar Marn, it's so good to see you again!" Ms. Haslina says. I tell my mum that I'll go to the third floor. While we are going up, Ms. Has asks me which course I'm pursuing. I say: "I'm pursuing BA (Hons) Communication at the university under the School of Arts," She says:" How wonderful! Congratulations!" She gives me a motherly hug. When the lift reaches the floor, my parents head out to the registry office to settle the university fees.


  I reach the third floor, Ms. Has tells me that she has to make a move as class is starting real soon. I head back to the study room of the MUFY academic office. The place had been my companion for three months when I was doing my third semester in July. It brings back a lot of memories! The new students didn't know I was an ex student but the lecturers are happy to see me again after four months. At 8.50am, I head out to the corridor waiting for my parents to get some "important work" done.




  I spot Ms. Helen James, the MUFY coordinator. "Hi Ms. Helen!" Ms. Helen turns around, "Hi Kar Marn, how are you?" I say: "I'm doing good!" She asks me whether I'm back for university degree. "Yes, yes I am!" After a short chat, she goes to the study to have a chat with my parents. I look at my watch, it's time to go down to sign myself for up the university programme. The foyer is packed with students and the line is so long to get yourself sign up. After signing up, I take the lift at the North Building to Jeffery Cheah Hall at level 4.




  While waiting for the orientation, I have a chat with my two new friends, Derek and Regine from Penang. At one point, Regine reveals that Derek sings. My face immediately lights up and asks him "Do you want to sing together one day?" Derek says: "Why not? Do you sing too?" I nod my head. I mean singing is my passion, it would be great to have a duet! "Do you mind sing a few verse for us?" Regine asks. I sing the chorus part of Start of Something New by the cast of High School Musical. Derek is quite surprised, "Wow, you have an amazing voice! How did you learn to sing that well?" "Well nothing much! Just constant singing at home that's all!" I say.




  After all the speeches made by the Vice Chancellor and Professors as well as the staff of the campus, it's time for a break. At 12.30pm, the students are back to the hall for the next activity. The Sunway Dance Club (SDC) put a performance of dance for us to lighten up the mood. The song they dance to is Shape of You by British singer, Ed Shearan. Later, the Sunway University Student Council (SUSC), organizes an amazing race for us to get know each other more.


  I'm on Team Dodge. Each team consists a group of ten. We are given an hour to complete the task but we need to do accordingly that is stated on the list. We go through the whole campus! There are two things:
1) It's a good exercise
2) You'll be sweaty after all that running and walking


  I try my hands on water bottles flipping but none of them turn out well. By the time we head back, everyone is tired and exhausted. The introduction of clubs and societies which take up the ending time by half an hour. I head down back to the foyer to wait for my sister. While waiting for my uncle to pick us up, I had a small chat with Shu Yie, my senior. Little did I know, a mini St. Davidian (my high school) reunion.


  My university life is about to begin, there are more to come.

Are You Awake? (25/11/16)

  It's Black Friday! How did you spend your Thanksgivings Day this year? Thanksgivings is not so popular in Malaysia but Black Friday is! I've seen a lot of online store from H&M to Amazon to Zalora and a whole lot more are having discount in conjunction with the celebration. Okay, I'm back in college. You must be wondering why I'm still in Kuala Lumpur instead of relaxing in my hometown, Malacca? I'm here to attend another talk organised by the Sunway Buddhist Society (SBS) called "Are You Awake" by Lancester University's lecturer, Dr. Alvin.

  I'm in the library to check out some Black Friday goods online. After awhile I bump into my senior, Jia Jin, who is just at the helping desk to get some paper work done. I turn off and follow his direction to the computer table. "Hi Jia Jin!" I whisper. "Hey, Katelyn!" He asks me what am I doing here, I tell him that I'll be attending a talk which is held by the society. "Yes! Of course! You came all the way just to attend?" he asks. I say: "Yes!" So he helps me with my bag and the both of us take the lift back up to the library's main entrance but the awkward moment is we forgot to press the button!

  After Jia Jin drops me off at the university's foyer, he rushes off to class. I thank him for his help before he left. There are a lot of booths are being set up for tomorrow's career fair so my curiosity hits me and I just wander around the whole foyer. I drop by Sunway University Music Society (SMS) to check out. Recently, I got an unexpected invitation from the society to perform tomorrow so might as well to check out who is the person invited me to perform.

  At 12.15pm, I make a bee line to LT2. I peak through the transparent glass of the door. Yes, class is still going on so I wait at one of the benches. A familiar person just passed by me. Is that Kuan Hui? I thought. I have to double confirm, yes it's Kuan Hui alright! I haven't seen him for six months! I'm surprised to see him. When the students coming out from the lecture theatre, Kuan Hui and I make a move. We also bump into Loke zai (young boy in Cantonese) and Jia Yee. Once we are all settle down, Loke zai calls the President of the society, Hon Pong, to inform him that we are already arrived.

  Unfortunately, he didn't call back but did reply the message that we should start first and Hon Pong will be coming later on. I have to inform Dr. Alvin that we should start the talk without further delay, we ask him whether he wants to use a microphone but he says he doesn't need one. What makes the talk so interesting is that Dr. Alvin our background as a Buddhist and how were we exposed to the religion.

Live Wire at Sunway University (26/11/16)

   It was my very first performance since I furthered my studies at Sunway Campus. My mum dropped me off with the sudents of Sunway Music Society (SMS) and there was a career fair going on so a little bit of entertainment to lighten up the mood. We were going through our last-minute checking to confirm the songs that we were going to perform later on. While waiting, I warmed my vocals up by doing the lip trails and drank honey so I could hit the high notes. My high school friend, Cheryl, also came for the performance too. She brought her guitar and a green file which contained all the chords and lyrics.

 While waiting for my turn to perform, I had some fun by singing a duet with Josh and Thomas- She Will be Loved by Maroon 5 and Drag Me Down by One Direction. A lot of performances had been cut off because The Ministry of Higher Education was also here as well to launch the career fair, so when the minister was delivering the speech, we were asked to turn PA system off until we were given the green light to continue with our event. I have waited for a long time to perform. Nemo came to apologise for the inconvenience caused, I said it was okay as long as I got the chance to show my talent, it's fine by me. 

  After Pearl, it was my turn. I stepped on the stage with confidence. Everyone was staring at me which made me feel uneasy at first. I tested the microphone to make sure everything is good and the sound system was okay. All the performers sang English songs, why not a twist of the performance with a Mandarin song? BFF by Astro Star Quest 2011 champion and 1st runner up- Geraldine and Jie Ying. Everyone was joining in the fun, I love it! Being on stage that means I can be myself without any judgement from anyone and it is a wonderful place to let go and feel free yourself. The good news was we were given the opportunity to have a lunch buffet at the Gallery View at Level 1. Although we had taken the food at the food truck but that one saved for dinner time. 

  When I was done eating, my mum called me where I was. I told her I'm at the Gallery View, at Level 1 at the university building. We took the lift back down to retrieve my lunchbox and drink which were left at the cafeteria table. It's so good to perform with students who share the same passion in music and singing. I finally got the chance to perform on campus which I have always wanted in my whole life! My goal had achieved! I'm looking forward to these kinds of events in future. Thank you Sunway Music Society! 

Last Day as College Student (11/11/16)

  The moment my parents drop me off at the library, I immediately go to the Sunway Campus Library's fountain view at Level B1. I take my favourite royal biography- The New Royal Family. It's all about TRH Prince William and Duchess Catherine on raising the future heir, their first born- Prince George of Cambridge and how William and Kate adjust their lives to parenthood. Although, it was renewed for the latest edition and published two years ago, that didn't stop me to get to know their roles in the 21st century. I take a photo of the fountain view and post it up on the social media. Oh you might be wondering why I'm in college today? I'll be attending a talk held by Sunway University Buddhist Society (SBS), titled: Science & Development in Buddhism. It's going to be at LT2, starting from 12.30pm to 2.00pm.


  Around 11.20am, I walk out of the library but stop at the main floor of the library, that's where the Level UG (Upper Ground) is located. They are having a mini film exhibition on Asian films including Singapore, Indonesia, China, Taiwan and of course Malaysia! I tour the exhibition awhile especially Malaysian film area. They have information about some Malaysian legend actors like the late Tan Sri P. Ramlee and Maya Karin. They display many of the Malaysian films from 1950s till now. Who wouldn't forget Astro's 2014 hit movie- The Journey and the recent Ola Bola, the movie is based on the true events in the 1980s- the golden football years in Malaysia. Besides that,  Ice Kacang Puppy Love (2010) was one of the first Mandarin movies in my early teen years


  Unfortunately, the items on displayed are not ready to be home loan yet until the exhibition ends on 18 November. The mini film exhibition in Sunway Campus Library is from 8 November till 18 November. I walk to one of the seats at the foyer at the university side of the campus. After I settling myself down, I walk to the SSD booth where they are promoting the Asia Leadership Conference 2017, which is going to be held on 14 January 2017. The registration fee is RM200. Early birds (for non-Sun U students) will have a 50% of the price, the discount lasts till the end of the month. While Sun U and College students will have a 50% discount as well!


  I drop by to say hi to my friend, Shenn Kuan, who is one of the SSD students. "Are you coming to the conference?" Shenn Kuan asks me as she hands me the flyer. I take a look at the flyer of the conference, "I'll think about it," I say "I'll tell my friends," I add. I walk back to my seat, I take the iPod from my bag again and take the a photo of the corridor of the university side. Last photo of college life in 2016. I realize that my iPod is running of battery so I go to one of the tables and charge the device because I need it for the talk later. While waiting for it to charge up, it's back to my book on the royals!




  At 12.20pm, I pack up all my stuff and head straight to LT2 to attend the talk. I'm about to open the door, some students come by to help me open the door. I thank them for their help after taking my seat. I double confirm the place with the society on their WhatsApp group chat. Not long after, the president of the SBS, Hon Pong come. "Hey Katelyn! You're here early!" Hon Pong says putting his bag down. "Yeah, it's the best to get everything early!" I laugh. After a few minutes, the other members start to come in. In the end, the talk is cancelled at the last minute as they forgot to inform Datuk Seri Victor Wee, the Prof. in Tourism of Taylor's University. Hon Pong apologises for the inconvenience caused.




  "No, no it's okay!" I say. What are we going to do for the next two and half hours? Planning the activities for 2017! We have a little fun by playing the microphone. When there is a microphone in my hand, I'm full on my "singer" mode! Time to show my singing skills off! Hon Pong draws out the planning on the board.




  In mid-meeting, Hon Pong asks me "Do you join any societies and clubs on campus?" I say "No. The only society I join on campus is SBS," Something has struck him, "Katelyn, would you be like our committee member?" Wait, what? I didn't expect that question coming. If you are a committee members of any society and club, you have to attend meetings. I wasn't a committee member back in my high school days. "I don't know, Hon Pong" I hesitate.


Being a committee member, you have big responsibilities! "Don't worry, we'll guide you," Cynthia says, who is the PR of the society. Hon Pong wants me to be the assistant secretary to Yi Xin, who is my high school senior. He knows my relationship with Yi Xin will make an amazing team. But Cynthia suggests that I should her place as PR, she and Hon Pong will be graduating soon.


 At 2pm, the university students are here for their lecture so we have to leave the room. When we exit the room, it's already start to rain. We go to the new canteen to have our free vegetarian lunch. My last tong sui before I come back to continue my undergraduate degree in January. I wait for the rain to stop as Cynthia go to the library to get some papers printed out. After that, we walk to the waiting point to wait for my Uncle Andy to pick me up.


  I'll see you next year, Sunway University!

Adidas Neo Campus Lauch (26/10/16)

  I arrived in college on the usual time, 8.20am. As I was getting my way out from the car, I saw a poster of my idol and friend, Danny Koo from Astro All Stars at the New University Building (NUB) which was near the library. I saw the words "Adidas Neo". Something tells me that I might be reuniting with my idol whom I admire for seven years is coming for a campus visit. I put it aside first as I continued made my move to the MUFY (Monash University Foundation Year) hub as first class was cancelled.

  After settled myself down, I started to do my revision as finals is coming next week. My Globalisation course mate- Wei Jay, as he entered the MUFY student room, he asked me whether there's a class today or not. "No, Wei Jay. There is no class today. Didn't you listen to Ms. Uma yesterday after class that today's class is cancelled?" Wei Jay said "Guessed I left early after the test but thanks anyway!" I said "No problem!" As Wei Jay packed up his bag and left the room. At 9.35am, I made my way to the next class which was Economics.

  We discussed the past year questions. To our surprise, the lecturer let us out early! As my friends and I were walking to the NUB, my mind was on Adidas Neo campaign again. I walked up the ramp and looked at the poster at the same time. After putting my bag at one of the tables, I walked around the university foyer as they were several booths set up by the students. The first stop I dropped by was Adidas Neo.

  Students were trying on the new product. I got my hands on the shoes and it's really comfortable but it was awkward when I went for the test walk because my left foot was wearing my trusted DC shoes and the right one was Adidas Neo. I found out the shoe is very light compared to other products. I asked casually to one of the organisers "Is Danny coming?" One of the organisers said: "Yes, Danny is coming! Around 12pm, you can drop by to say to him." Wow, reuniting with my idol after three months since I last met him.

  While waiting for Danny's arrival, I waited at SUSC's (Sunway University Student Council) booth. The students were kind enough to drop by for awhile. Around 12.05pm, Danny has arrived along with othe ambassadors of Adidas Neo. I was so excited! One of the SUSC students brought me over to the Adidas Neo booth to catch a glimpse of my idol and friend. He was taking a selfie with a student who first spotted him. I asked a lady organiser "Could I meet Danny please?" She said "Yes, you can! But he's changing, he'll come out in a short while," Less than five minutes, Danny was clad with the brand's products.

  "Danny gor gor (big brother in Cantonese)!" I called Danny. Danny was quite surprised to see me on campus. He said "Hey! It's been awhile since we last met! How have you been? Are you a student here?" I said:"Yeah I'm good! And yes, I'm a student here." Puting an arm around me, Danny and U I took a quick selfie as I was rushing to my next class, Biology. I gave Danny a big hug before I made my move.

  In Bio class, we were doing our revision as I realised I left my jacket at the SUSC's booth. Luckily, my bio lecturer let us out early as some of them were having a Chemistry test. Genieve and I took the lift back to Ground Floor.

  Once we reached, I quickly walked over to the SUSC booth to retrieve my misplaced purple jacket. As I was walking to the waiting area, I saw Danny was at the photo booth taking some pictures with the students along with some big props. That made me to stop in my tracks to say hi to him, again. I squeezed my away to the photo booth. I took the iPhone from Genieve as I handed it to Danny. We took another picture. I had the chance to ask him a question which has been in my mind for a long time. "Can I sing a duet with you one day?" I asked. Danny said "Yeah, sure! One day, you pick a song yet?" I said I haven't. I wanted to talk more but I realised I was "blocking"other students. Before I left, I said thanks to Danny.

  What a an amazing day I had! A mini reunion and day out with Danny just gave me the best earliest  19th birthday present! I respect Danny as an artist as he has the passion for music and created so many videos throughout his eight years in the music industry. He is so humble and has a child's heart when he is around with children when hosting kids' programmes. He is one my idols that I look up to in the music world.

Practising Buddhism (21/10/16)

  After Biology class Genieve and I walk to the Lecture Theatre at the New University Building (NUB). You might think that both of us are going together right? Well, I'm the one who was going not Genieve, she's  just dropping me off to the talk is held by the Sunway University Buddhist Society (SBS). We invited Datuk Seri Victor Wee (he's a Malaccan!)  from Taylor's University Lakeside Campus to give a talk on how we can apply Buddhism in our everyday life.


 
When I arrive at Lecture Theatre 2 (LT2), I knock on the door. Hon Pong, the president of the society notices me through the small transparent glass on the door as he signals Yee Tang to open the door for me. I quickly make my way to the front seat. The chair is really tricky to pull out as the bottom of the seat has some kind of spring which makes the chair to reposition to its original place. That really concerns some of the seniors as they are worried whether I will fall of the chair or not. Everything turns out fine.




  Datuk Seri Victor Wee talks about relationship between us and the people we interact in our everyday life. First relationship between couples (husband and wife & BF and GF). "Why there are young couples ended up in a divorce nowadays?" Datuk questions us. "Because during the dating time, they were so blinded by love. By the time, they got married, they found out their true colours and it will end up in a big fight and arguments. That's when divorce steps in," Now I know why my folks didn't want me to be involved in a relationship. That's one part of my question has been answered. For husband and wife there are four kinds which are:
A male ghost with a goddess (Husband is bad but the wife is good)
A female ghost with a god (Wife is bad but the husband is good)
A male ghost and a female ghost (Both husband and wife are bad)
A god with a goddess (Both husband and wife are good)


I bet everyone will pick the last one. Everyone wants a happy marriage or relationship.


  Moving on to friends, teachers and students as well as family. On family, parents must set good examples to the children, giving them unconditional love and spending time with them to make the bond closer. Also doing good too! If a parent drink a lot or smoke, the child might follow the footsteps when he or she grows older. In school or college, teachers and lecturers are the source of knowledge for students as they educate the future generations as they will run the country (it doesn't matter which profession) in years to come. Not just educating them through books but also protect them from danger.


  Friends on the other hand, we have to choose the ones who care for us, concern about, giving advice when times in need, providing the biggest support. Guiding us away from evil. Not the ones who downgrades us or even left you when you're in trouble and not accepting for who you are as a person. The reality is nobody is perfect! We have our flaws and strength, we need to accept and learn from it. If a friend who is not worth it, just walk away. You don't need give him or her a snap when you two pass by, give them a big smile with warmth. I'm sure they will regret one day.


  To promote peace, it's like planting a seed on the ground and water it with love. When the trees grows, we can spread the love not the hate unless some people want to do the other way round. The talk ends with Q&A session and a small prayer. It's lunch time! You guess it! Free vegetarian lunch at the new cafeteria. My lunch can't go without tong sui. Datuk Seri Victor told us about his education journey. He did his degree at University Malaya (UM), proceeding his Masters in the UK and finally his PhD in the US. He reveals that he is a Professor in Hospitality and Tourism which brings much delight to Jia Jin as he is doing the course.


  After lunch, we visit to the Pure Land exhibition at the Art Gallery, Level 1. We go into a special room where the walls are filled with sketches of lines. The fun part is when we use the iPad (borrowed from the exhibition), we can see the statues of Buddha and other work of art from the Middle East. It's really amazing! The exhibition is until 25 October 2016. Grab your chance and get ready to be transported into a magical world of wonders! Don't forget to sign the book too! What a fun day!





 

Interfaith Talk at Sunway University (13/10/16)

  Just left a few minutes before my first class ends, my phone vibrates while I'm watching a Youtube video in  Globalisation class. While my lecturer is not looking, I take a peak at the SBS Member Group chat through WhatsApp. Our president, Hon Pong sends a picture of the scene of the talk at JC 3 hall. The talk ends at 10.30am so that hits me want to go as well. At 9.42am, Ju Lynn and use the short cut which is the bridge that leads to the New University Building (NUB). Luckily, we didn't use the lift at the university building of the campus. The dialogue is organized by Sunway Student Council.

  It's an awkward moment when I enter the hall but nonetheless the students are kind enough to offer me a front seat of the hall. I got a great view of the stage although my neck hurts when look up at the screen. Anyway, I settle myself down before turning my full attention to the speakers.

On the big screen, there are four speakers who represents each religion. Mr. Wong Chong Tat is the consultant of Young Buddhist Association of Malaysia (YBAM), Mr. Jason Leong is under the Christians for Peace and Harmony,  Master Dr. A.S. Varadrajan is under the Malaysia Hindu Hendu and Dr. Wan Adli Wan Ramli from University Malaya. Not forgetting the moderator of the dialogue is Mr. Terrance Lim.

  Each of the speaker takes turn to talk about their respective religion. This is very interesting! I thought. Mr. Wong speaks about greed and hatred, how should we avoid them. For example, someone takes up the parking lot when you are about to park the car in that very spot, just because of that you get down from the car and start a massive argument with the person who takes up the parking lot. It's because of the words "You" and "I" in that argument which divide us apart and we don't want that to happen. Another example is the experience of Mr. Wong going back to his hometown.

  Mr. Wong took a midnight coach back to his hometown. Suddenly, the bus met an accident with a car. He said "I was also one of the kei po ci (busy bodies) to have a look. I saw a Malay man who was seriously injured so I asked the two Malay men beside me to say some grace to the victim to not think about the pain," That was very touching move made by Mr. Wong. Besides that, Dr. Varadrajan speaks about his family history. He mentions about cancer patients have a vegetarian diet. "If we eat roti canai but inside of the flour there is no nutrient at all! Same goes to us, please take care of your health," He also adds "When you step out of the hall later on, I bet some of you will forget immediately," The hall fills with laughter.

  Mr. Jason Leong mentions about is better than justice. Through his experience as a lawyer, he says that in a court there will be a winner and a loser. If a sensitive issue has brought up in the court, it would be a big case to handle and there's no win-win situation. Mr. Jason also mentions about the false news that see on the Internet. Now, the Internet is so widespread there are a lot of false news every now and then. Finally, the floor is handed Dr. Wan Adli. In Islamic teaching, he mentions that we have to accept each other for who we are. 

  Token of appreciation are presented to speakers when the dialogue comes to a close. Lucky for me, I got to stay back for awhile to ask Mr. Wong a few of my personal experiences in college. Like the "friendship breakup" back in April. "Some of the students don't accept us for who we are. Like you for example, you have physical disabilities. Some of them think you are a burden to them so they said a mouth of hurtful words to you," He also adds "What you can do is just walk away with pride and find the friends who accept you just the way you are because in Buddhism, we always give them words of blessings," My question is finally answered!

  Four religions during the dialogue but makes up one huge success! It doesn't matter which belief we are in, as long as we live together in harmony and unite together as one!

Fish Out of Water at The Fish Bowl (5/9/16)

 My last class which is Biology ended at 1.30pm. Hui Yee and I are waiting for Ammelin, my batch mate, to pick me up because we're heading to The Fish Bowl poke cafe to have lunch. Hui Yee accompanies the two of us, to the lift since she is done for the day. Ammelin presses the down button but the lift is going up so we decide to "ride" with the rest of the students until it reaches the fifth floor, then back down to the ground floor. 

  When we reach the ground floor, we let out a sigh of relive. Since the newly opened cafe is at the university side, we have to walk all the way till the end of the campus. The sun is scorching high above us but that didn't stop us from getting our lunch. On the way to the cafe, some students also walking out of the campus at this time of hour. Still, we have to cross the road to get to our destination. I manage to stop a car. 

  Along the way, Ammelin tells me that The Fish Bowl poke cafe is always full when she comes for lunch. Since it's around 1.40pm, I think there will not be much students as most students' break time is at 11.00am. The moment we enter the cafe, I smell fresh salmon filling in the air. The setting is an underwater theme- the white float hanging on the wall says Welcome Aboard. Since it's our first time dining here, San, who is one of the co workers of the cafe gives us a brief guide on how to order our "fish bowl". 

  I look through the steps carefully. I tick the one that I love to eat on the list, probably almost everything! Nah, I'm just kidding! Ammelin hands our orders to San. After a few minutes, our "fish bowls" are done. I look at the combination of my meal and I know why they called The Fish Bowl because the round cup is like a place for the fishes to swim. Instead of real life fishes, the dishes we ordered are described as the "fish". A very interesting name! I can't wait to taste more when I visit to the cafe next time. Maybe, I'll be putting Mayo or Thousand Island as the final toppings of my dish. 

  A very pleasant and relaxing cafe. The staffs are very friendly and hospitable, so drop by at The Fish Bowl when your nearby to get your lunch out of the water.