The day started off bright and early, and it was so exciting see so many of you ready to seize the day!
Students getting their wrist tickets for the morning's sessions.
The conference started off with a welcome address by FrogAsia’s Executive Director, Lou Yeoh, followed by an opening speech from our Second Deputy Education Minister YB P. Kamalanathan, who motivated students to apply to world-class universities. Dr. Robert Chard, vice principal of St Anne’s College, encouraged students to send in their applications, and Dr. Anne Mullen, Vice Principal (International) of St Andrew’s University, gave us an overview of how the university system in the United Kingdom works. She reminded us that education is about training our minds. “Not your mum’s mind, not your teachers’ minds, your mind!”
We couldn't wait for the subject talks to start!
With that, we kicked off with the subject talks! The passion of these professors for their fields was evident to all as they told us about their areas of research. Dr. Peter Judge left the audience with this piece of advice: “Be bold. Be brave—and make that application.”
Being brave and bold isn't a problem for Malaysian students!
The Oxford University Malaysian Club (OUMC) shared how each of them came from different educational backgrounds. From international schools to national schools, it is testament to the fact that an education at the University of Oxford, a world class university, is possible for those with determination. The OUMC student panel also spoke on what it was like to apply to and experience studying at one of the most esteemed universities in the world.
“Choose something you’re really passionate about.” We agree!
Also, there were some pretty amazing things taking place at the exhibition hall! A ten-foot trampoline called the Dreamcatcher and a replica of the Junior Common Room found in the University of Oxford formed part of the exhibition. There were also interactive Frog VLE demonstrations and a replica of the University of Oxford Shop where FrogAsia T-shirts, button badges, and more could be found! At the OUMC booth, the members of the OUMC played interactive games and chatted with students.
How high can you jump?
Prof. Chard and Prof. Speight then took the stage to explain what goes on during the University of Oxford’s admissions process. Prof. Speight reminded us that at the end of the day, “it’s not the buildings, it’s the people.” Following that, we had two live admissions interview demonstrations, where two current Oxonians demonstrated how an Oxford interview takes place. It was a showcase of the skill of critical thinking, as the professors wanted to assess if the interviewee is able to think beyond what is taught within the four walls of a classroom.
The questions sounded simple, but the answers might surprise you!
Later, Datin Kathleen Chew of YTL Foundation hosted an interview with Yang Amat Mulia Tunku Ali Redhauddin Ibni Tuanku Muhriz, Tunku Besar of Sri Menanti. He told us, “university teaches you how to think, how to question—to not take things at face value.” As an Oxbridge graduate himself, he emphasised that, “it’s important to challenge yourself, take risks, and see the world. But come back to your home later.”
Participants shared their opinions during the session. It was great to know that so many students wanted to pursue a higher education!
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