Alumni Amanda Lim (Class of 2017) completed her BSc(Hons) Occupational Therapy with First Class Honours at the University of Liverpool last summer and was chosen to be the valedictorian at her cohort’s graduation ceremony. She is now working as an Occupational Therapist in the NHS, UK. Another wonderful success story of one of the most recent Alumni that we are incredibly proud of.
Amanda, how were you selected as valedictorian?
In the final year of my course, I volunteered and was chosen to be one of four of the year’s representatives. This role entailed bridging the gap between lecturers and the cohort, raising and discussing any issues or important plans. COVID understandably caused a lot of stress and uncertainty which heightened anxieties. So, the other three year reps and I worked tirelessly to listen to issues raised and to communicate important information. We ensured action was taken by lecturers/staff and for issues were resolved efficiently and successfully, and students were aware of all crucial communications. The coronavirus affected all of us uniquely, which meant at times, the other Year Reps were unable to fulfil their duties; whereas, I was fortunate to have had the physical ability and mental capacity to continue to be the first point of contact for all.
Leading up to graduation, I was approached by one of our lead lecturers, asking if I would like to represent OT and Health Sciences in the graduation ceremony. She stated that I was a great asset and “critical” to helping everyone navigate through university. So, I gratefully accepted!
I was prompted to reflect on my time in university; to summarise all we, Health Science graduates, had accomplished and will continue to achieve in a short, 5-minute speech. (I have attached it at the bottom if you would like to read it). Speaking in front of all the Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, Orthoptists and proud families was such a special moment.
How did GIS prepare you for the journey beyond school?
GIS provided me with many opportunities to build my confidence. Events such as Eisteddfod and classes such as drama, pushed me outside of my comfort zones; with these, I developed my public speaking, to be brave in front of an audience and to try even if it does not seem like my “cup of tea”.
Additionally, being part of the ‘Student Voice’ taught me leadership skills, how to listen effectively to others and how to take action to issues raised. I learned what it meant to be a good leader and felt humbled and achieved whenever I was able to help others.
English classes also equipped me with great English language skills; how to write and portray myself on paper and in person which has no doubt helped me not only in assignments but in every conversation I carried.
Finally, a huge credit would go to the supportive, knowledgeable and compassionate teachers I had in school. Dr Browning, Ms Mangin, Mrs Jones, Ms Eyes, Mr Mah, Mrs Yap and so many more. Their passion for teaching spread beyond their love for the subject, but also to nurturing each student. Their grace and endless encouragement in a class taught me endurance. Though it was perseverance to attain the desired grade in school, it is second nature to me to persist through wider life experiences.
What advice would you give to the current GIS students who are interested in similar career choices?
The healthcare sector is extremely rewarding when we have a passion for people. It is definitely challenging and nerve-wracking knowing that life or death lies in our hands. However, keep asking questions, keep learning, mistakes will be made along the way, but we are never alone and we just have to ensure we learn from those mistakes. Healthcare is always evolving, so, we have to be flexible, lifelong learners to keep up to date in order to keep everyone safe.
GIS is the best place to learn; do not be afraid to ask questions, there is no better or more supportive place to fail and try again.
Click this LINK if you would like to read Amanda’s Valedictorian Speech
Congratulations and thank you, Amanda, for taking the time to share your achievements and experiences with us. We wish you all the best for the future! If you would like to feature as part of our ‘Alumni Newsletter’, just get in touch with us: alumni@gardenscool.edu.my. Because every story matters.
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