KUCHING – Two undergraduates showed that they have the makings of an engineer when they were each awarded for outstanding academic achievements by professional engineering bodies.
Tan Pei Siang and Tan Jing Yang, both final year students from Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus, were presented with the awards recently.
Civil engineering student Pei Siang received the Institute of Structural Engineers Book Prize 2014 for achieving outstanding results in three structural engineering subjects.
The Institution of Structural Engineers is headquartered in London and is the world’s leading professional body for structural engineering.
Pei Siang, a former science stream student from Chung Hua Middle School No.1, attributed winning the award to her lecturers and tutors, who she described as “passionate”, her family and friends.
“Of course, I have to put in the effort too. I have to be proactive in looking for lecturers, searching for more information on the internet and books in the library to enhance my understanding.
“Sometimes I wondered if the lecturers were fed-up with me for asking too many questions,” she said, jokingly.
Although it was not her first choice, she grew to appreciate civil engineering during her first year at university.
“From there I began to gain interest. In fact, I am more interested in some fields such as traffic, transport and structural.”
The award included a RM1,000 cheque and the Kuching-born student may donate a portion to charity.
“Two years ago, I committed to support a needy primary school student in her education through a sponsorship program. I may use part of the money for that purpose,” said Pei Siang, who plans to venture into business someday.
She advised her fellow students to share their knowledge. “By sharing, you are actually revising what you know. And, never be afraid to seek advice from lecturers, tutors and friends. Be humble too because everyone is learning and good at different fields. It is always good to discuss and brainstorm with friends. Furthermore, accept criticisms and be willing to learn from mistakes.”
For maintaining a CGPA of 4.0, mechanical engineering student Jing Yang was awarded the Institution of Engineers Malaysia Gold Medal 2014.
“I am really honoured and thankful to IEM Malaysia for the award. It has certainly motivated me to continue striving for excellence in my studies,” said the JPA sponsored student from Bedong, Kedah, adding that he will also consider postgraduate studies.
Describing himself as one who has a fascination for innovative applications in science and technology that could improve the standard of living, Jing Yang said he hopes to pursue a career in research and development.
Like Pei Siang, he said he has his lecturers, “who are always helpful”, to thank for.
“They guided me in broadening my technical knowledge and enhancing my critical skills,” said the 22-year-old, who also found discussing academic problems with friends and course mates also helped.
“I thank my parents for their understanding and support in whatever I do, raising me and trusting me in every decision I make.”
Established in 1959, IEM Malaysia primarily promotes and advances the science and profession of engineering, and facilitates the exchange of information and ideas related to engineering.