As a proud Sunway alumna, it is truly meaningful to give back to my own alma mater as it was Sunway University that shaped me to be the person that I am today. It is an honour to be able to give back to the community and impart skills and knowledge to my juniors and guide them in various aspects of life.
In the past few years, I had the pleasure of delivering multiple sharings through Student LIFE programmes. In addition, I have been volunteering as a mentor for the Sunway Mentoring Programme for several cohorts. What really sparked the passion to commit time and energy into these alumni initiatives is the sense of contributing back and making an impact on others. Especially for the Sunway Mentoring Programme, I personally wished I had joined the programme when I was in university as that would have meant less chances of walking down the wrong path! Therefore, putting myself in their shoes, I'm sure having mentoring as a good support system would definitely help in guiding and developing my juniors.
Another meaningful initiative that I’ve been contributing to is the Community Scholarship Fund, which supports students from underprivileged backgrounds to have an opportunity to obtain their tertiary education. Hearing their stories inspired me to do my small part in this endeavour.
Giving back has shaped me in ways that I never expected. Through mentoring my juniors, there have been many times that they taught me new things! I was able to reflect on my own experiences and realise things about myself while on the mentoring journey. I also sharpened my skills to connect with the younger generation and to think holistically about the issues they are facing.
It has been a pleasant journey of giving back to my alma mater Sunway University. I truly wish to do more and contribute either time, talent, or treasure to build a next generation of leaders who are confident and competent.
I urge all alumni who have the capacity to contribute and give back to do so, as it not only benefits the next generation, but it also adds value to yourself - personally and professionally. The sense of achievement when your mentee snags that internship that they have been longing for – it's truly something irreplaceable.
Sandra Khoo Huiyong
Bsc (Hons) Psychology
2019
