I embarked on PGDIS a decade after completing my doctorate in business administration. PGDIS is an ideal platform to explore Islamic knowledge in various perspectives. As a senior citizen, I paid only 50% of the total fees. If I couldn’t attend a class, I could watch its recording later, as all classes are online.

I began my PhD journey in January 2019, then in November, I gave birth to my daughter. Balancing motherhood, work, and research during a global pandemic was daunting. The pressure often led to self-doubt and anxiety, but it also strengthened me. I have not only earned a PhD but also learned to adapt and persevere through life’s most difficult times.

I’ve always aspired to be multidisciplinary, driven by my passion for educational research and desire to gain new insights on the education system. Some of what we learned 5-10 years ago may be irrelevant today, so lifelong learning is essential. The PhD journey isn’t meant to be easy, but when we feel overwhelmed, it’s often a sign of growth.

As a nurse educator in Jeddah, I have been using digital tools to create interactive and engaging course materials. I chose the Doctor of Nursing programme because of the comprehensive curriculum covering the latest advancements in educational technology and instructional design. I also learnt about advanced clinical skills, leadership development, research and evidence-based practice, healthcare innovation and professional growth. OUM has a knowledgeable faculty who bring real-world expertise to their teaching.

Saya pernah menyiapkan tugasan sambil terlantar di hospital, malah merekodkan video di wad! Semasa praktikum di tadika pula, saya belajar mengendalikan 20 kanak-kanak, jauh berbeza daripada menjaga anak buah yang sedikit. Pengalaman ini membuka mata saya tentang pengurusan kelas dan kepentingan memberi perhatian yang adil kepada setiap kanak-kanak. Setiap cabaran yang dihadapi mengajar saya tentang nilai sebenar usaha dan ketekunan.

I worked as a lawyer in Singapore and Malaysia before switching to social work in Malaysia and India for 11 years. Helping refugees and trafficking victims inspired me to pursue a master’s to become a licensed counsellor. Once, I helped a refugee child victim. I could not only provide legal assistance but also prepare her emotionally for her day in court.

I had previously enrolled at another university, but the schedule clashed with my working hours. Luckily, I found out about OUM through a cousin. If it weren’t for OUM’s online learning system, I couldn’t have achieved this milestone. The programme has even inspired me to consider pursuing a PhD. Without OUM’s support and challenging curriculum, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

OUM has highly qualified and experienced nursing lecturers. They bring not only theoretical knowledge but also practical insights from their real-world experiences. The student support services are also incredibly beneficial. Whether it was access to online libraries, academic advising or peer support networks, OUM provided the tools I needed for my studies. I could also connect with other working professionals pursuing similar goals, which made the experience more collaborative and engaging.

I decided to take PGDT to increase my chances of becoming a teacher, after years of attending interviews. I successfully juggled full-time work and studies, thanks to OUM's flexible learning environment. During my studies, I discovered a passion for integrating technology into education, which not only enhanced my teaching methods but also sparked creativity in my students. I also met people from different backgrounds, which broadened my perspectives.

Working in an MNC with experience in many large-scale projects, I’ve seen how crucial it is to protect both the workforce and the environment, especially in project settings. Experience is important, but it is equally important to have formal education. While practical knowledge enables you to handle real-life situations, academic learning deepens your understanding of the theories, principles, and regulations that govern the field. My degree has significantly enhanced my effectiveness by refining my strategic and operational skills.

When COVID-19 hit, many universities in Indonesia struggled to adapt to the sudden shift to online learning. OUM's well-established online platforms and flexible scheduling allowed me to continue my education without major disruptions. The Master of Education programme deepened my understanding of educational theories, curriculum design, and instructional strategies, which I could apply directly in my classroom. The programme has helped me to create more dynamic and student-centred lessons, and improved my classroom management skills.

I pursued my master’s to advance from Site Safety Supervisor to Safety and Health Officer, a goal I achieved while still studying. The lecturers, all experienced safety professionals, brought valuable industry insights, while my course mates from across Malaysia, each with diverse backgrounds, expanded my network in the field. OUM will always hold a special place in shaping my career growth.

As a fresh school-leaver, I applied to UPU but wasn’t accepted into any university. However, I was determined to further my studies, particularly in business and management, so I enrolled in OUM. Studying part-time while my peers attended public universities full-time was tough, but after three years, I have completed my studies with a CGPA of 3.93.

Saya telah 27 tahun berkhidmat di Jabatan Penjara Malaysia, kini sebagai penguasa penjara dan kaunselor yang berdaftar dengan Lembaga Kaunselor Malaysia. Pegawai penjara kini bukan sekadar penjaga, tetapi juga pendidik dan pembimbing. Pengajian saya telah membolehkan saya mendalami bidang Pengurusan Pendidikan Koreksional, yang masih kurang diterokai di negara kita. Ilmu ini bukan sekadar untuk kemajuan diri, tetapi juga untuk membantu mereka yang telah tersasar kembali ke jalan yang benar.