Four years after SPM, I was excited at the chance to further my studies at MPI, despite the skepticism expressed by my family members. They were doubtful whether I could still study well after such a long break from school. I was going to prove them wrong.
The very first day I reported at MPI I had to sit for an English proficiency test. I was stunned by the topic of the 200-word essay: “Discuss the differences between local and overseas education”. I could not write a single word!
I knew then I needed to work very, very hard to improve my English. So every night I studied late till past mid-night, looking up the dictionary to find the meaning of every unfamiliar word. I would write the meanings beside those unfamiliar words in the notes before I went to class. At the end of the first semester, I was overjoyed to have scored GPA 4.0! I continued to work hard till I graduated, and my English has improved by leaps and bounds.
Another great challenge for me was the financial constraint. Coming from a single-parent family, with my sister also going for tertiary education soon, I needed to find various means to fund my studies. I applied for PTPTN but the fund was insufficient. Every semester I had to defer payment of tuition fees. God was faithful in His provision. When the deadline for fee payment was due, He provided the fund needed. I am grateful to MPI for the grant through MPI study loan and the MPI Alumni scholarship.
I also treasure the memorable experience as Chairman of the Music Club at MPI, in particular, when I led the committee to organize a Musical-Dinner Event. As I planned the event, organized resources, programs and manpower, liaised with various suppliers and partners, I learned a lot in terms of soft skills and interpersonal relations.
MPI has transformed my life in the following areas:
(1) The opportunity for tertiary education
My SPM result barely met the minimum entry requirements. By God’s grace I was able to obtain the Accounting degree, which I hoped would help me in my future entrepreneurship in the field of organic farming.
(2) The assurance of salvation
Though I accepted Christ at the age of 16, without proper nurturing, I did not mature in my Christian faith. At MPI, I met many Christian friends during the Religious Period, who encouraged me in my Christian walk. Gradually I grew in my relationship with God and became more committed in MYF and church ministries.
(3) Transformation in character
MPI has also helped me to cultivate good character. I used to be very hot-tempered. By God’s grace, it is being brought under control. I believe the Holy Spirit will continue to work in my life to shape good character.
(4) Discovery of Gifts
Through my involvement in various extra-curricular activities, I discovered my organizational and management gifts which also helped me develop leadership skills. I was an office-bearer in various clubs: Accounting Recreational Club, Badminton Club, Leo Club and Music Club. (Alvin is currently the Chairman of MYF at Wesley Methodist Church.)
(5) Purposeful and Blessed Life
In the past I had lived my life without direction or purpose. Now I have committed my life to Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior to lead me. I want to honor God in my full-time vocation, and let Him guide my future.
In conclusion, I wish and pray that MPI continues to soar towards greater heights in providing quality education, always adhering to the core mission of touching and transforming more lives “for the glory of God and service of man.”
Interviewed & compiled by Tracy Lee