Empowering Futures: A Journey of Education, Scholarship, and Contribution

1 July 2024
Jagadesan Chandra Mohan

As I reflect on my journey through university, supported by the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation Community Scholarship, and now thriving in my career, I realised the profound impact both my academic programme and the scholarship have had on shaping my path forward. I am grateful for this opportunity to share how my university programme and scholarship have influenced my life and career, and hopefully share the insights I have gained with aspiring scholars and alumni alike.

My university programme laid a solid foundation for my career by imparting not only theoretical knowledge but also practical skills essential for the workplace. One exemplary instance of this was during my final year project, where I developed a Hotel Management System for a hotel in Cameron Highlands. This experience not only honed my technical skills but also taught me valuable lessons in project management, communication, and teamwork - all crucial for thriving in any professional environment. 

 

 

I was one of the pioneer students who was given the opportunity to study at Sunway University and sit for exams accredited by Lancaster University, UK. The experience was very profound as the transition was very smooth and many academic staff assisted us to perform better in our studies. While I was studying, I was working with Philea Home in Kapar to set up a computer lab for them and taught them an introductory course on Microsoft Office. 

The programme not only equipped me with skills for employment but also instilled in me a sense of responsibility towards society. Through various community engagement initiatives facilitated by the university, I found avenues to contribute meaningfully. Whether it was volunteering for local charities, participating in community decision-making processes, or leveraging social networks for positive change, my university experience broadened my perspectives and nurtured a spirit of service within me. Upon graduating, I assisted one of the students from Philea Home to complete her higher education. In addition, I came back to Sunway University to contribute via the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation and to serve as an External Advisory Board Member for the American Degree Transfer Program. I realised that much of my leadership skills were found and finetuned in Sunway University, and every time I am back on campus, I always learn new things. 

The skills acquired from my programme not only benefitted my career but also enriched my personal life. From gaining entrepreneurial skills to fostering effective teamwork, my university journey equipped me with a versatile skill set that transcends professional boundaries. These skills have not only helped me navigate the complexities of the workplace but also empowered me to tackle challenges in my life with confidence and resilience. 

The Jeffrey Cheah Foundation Community Scholarship provided me with invaluable support, enabling me to strike a balance between academic pursuits and other commitments. With the financial burden alleviated, I could fully immerse myself in my studies while also engaging in extracurricular activities, community service, and personal development endeavours. This balance, facilitated by the scholarship, was instrumental in shaping my holistic growth during my university years. 

 

 

Looking back, the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation Community Scholarship was nothing short of life-changing. It not only granted me access to quality education but also opened doors to opportunities for personal and professional growth. The ripple effects of this scholarship extended far beyond my university years, shaping the trajectory of my life and instilling in me a profound sense of gratitude and responsibility towards giving back to society.

As a community scholar who has successfully navigated the transition from academia to the workforce, my advice to my juniors is simple: seize every opportunity, embrace challenges as learning experiences, and never underestimate the power of perseverance. I wish for them to approach their respective journeys with humility, resilience, and a deep sense of purpose, knowing that each step they take contributes not only to their personal success but also for the betterment of society. One piece of advice that I always tell my juniors is to pick your friends wisely because your environment shapes you. So, choose wisely and you will excel in life.

 

As an alumni donor contributing to the same scholarship that had once supported me, I hope to see future generations of scholars benefitting from similar opportunities. I envision an alumni community actively engaged in nurturing the next generation of leaders, fostering a culture of giving, and paying forward the support they once received. Together, we can create a legacy of impact that transcends individual achievements and empowers future generations. In my current role, I am privileged to serve as the founder of MyHealerDoc, a digital healthcare platform designed to revolutionise the way patients access wound care specialists. Our platform connects patients with qualified healthcare professionals, providing convenience, accessibility, and personalised care. Through MyHealerDoc, we aim to support the community by addressing the critical need for timely and efficient wound care management, thereby enhancing patient outcomes and quality of life.

 

 

One significant challenge I faced in my role was navigating the complexities of the healthcare industry and overcoming scepticism surrounding the adoption of digital platforms. Through strategic partnerships, relentless perseverance, and a deep commitment to our mission, we were able to garner support, build trust, and position MyHealerDoc as a trusted ally in the healthcare ecosystem. Our accomplishments include becoming a Top 20 Startup in SAP 5th Cohort, being recognised as Successful Person in Malaysia & Singapore by British Publishing House, 30 Stars of Sunway, and most importantly, positively impacting the lives of patients in need.

In conclusion, my journey thus far has been shaped by the transformative power of education, scholarship, and community engagement. As I continue to evolve and grow, I remain committed to paying forward the support I once received, empowering future generations and leaving a legacy of impact.