10 pieces of advice from KOE Best Students to students

By Shafiy Nordin

GOMBAK, 14 December 2023: “Success isn’t instantaneous. It’s a journey,” said a graduate who was awarded as one of the Best Student of the Kulliyyah of Engineering (KOE), Faqiihuddin bin Nasary in the fourth session of 39th IIUM Convocation Ceremony at IIUM Gombak.

IIUM Today conducted exclusive interviews with four graduates from KOE who were awarded Best Students who imparted useful advice. They were Muhammad Faqiihuddin bin Nasary (Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronics)), Umair bin Kasim (Bachelor of Engineering (Materials)), Nur Najihah binti Nor Hisham (Bachelor of Engineering (Electronics-Computer and Information)) and, Noor Syahirah binti Khiyon (Bachelor of Civil Engineering). They said the following:

1. Apply the teachings of Al-Quran

Other than parents, Al-Quran should be the main source of our motivation so as to be excellent in this world and in the Hereafter. Umair shared his story as hafiz, spending time with the Quran helps to motivate us when we are demotivated, strengthen us when we are weak and is the best remedy and therapy for our hearts. The Quran leads us to have a fulfilling existence.

2. Give the best to your parents

Parents are the first who shape us to be who we are today. Without their prayers, we are nothing. Najihah said that our parents would always support our decisions, and support us emotionally and physically. Seeing them work hard to provide us with our daily needs should give us a feeling of guilt if we are not at least doing our best to appreciate their sacrifices.

3. Challenges are catalysts for growth

Throughout our academic journey, challenges are ever-present. The pursuit of knowledge is nothing without its trials. Academic success demands immense dedication and sacrifices. Faqiihuddin stated that the challenges encountered were not hurdles but stepping stones, shaping us into more resilient individuals. 

4. Understand the purpose of life

Humans are not created except to worship Allah. By understanding why we have been created, we would do our best in all our actions. Seeking knowledge is an act of worship. That’s why we should be sincere and strive for success because everything we do is monitored and blessed by Allah. Certainly, the best rewards come when we seek His pleasure.

5. Prioritize and focus on your goals

Balancing coursework, projects, and personal commitments is not easy. Syahirah shared her experiences that she was struggling during her final year project and integrated design project that tested her technical and teamwork skills. However she managed them by prioritizing her tasks and focusing on attaining success after going through hard times.

6. Organize your time wisely

Time is more valuable than money. We cannot waste every single second that we have. When we get assignments and tasks, start doing them immediately. Do not procrastinate as procrastination is the thief of time. We cannot claim that we are busy and lacking time all the time. Everyone has the same 24 hours. Be productive and make every second count.

7. Seek help when needed

Professors and peers are always there for you. We cannot survive on our own. We need support from others in order for us to keep on going and maintain our momentum throughout our studies. If we are stuck when doing our projects and works, we are free to refer to academic materials available from our campus or outside resources.

8. Maintain a balanced lifestyle

Take care of your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Go out to exercise regularly as the old proverb goes, ‘A healthy mind lives in a healthy body’. Mental health also should be prioritized. Learn from mistakes, appreciate small things and avoid negativity such as overthinking. Keep your faith strong by practising Islam not only when performing acts of ibadah, but also in all aspects of life.

9. Hard work beat talent

“I was not born with a genius brain but I know hardwork is the key to success,” Umair said. Knowledgeable people are not only those who are intelligent in nature. They are the ones who are willing to invest much of their time, money and energy to gain ilm. No one can achieve success in studies with sloth and laziness.

10. Believe in yourself and your abilities

You are what you think you are. Be confident and optimistic. Keep your inner self strong. Faqiih mentioned that challenges are opportunities for self development. “Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear” (Quran 2:286). Everyone can be successful. Success is a gift for those who face adversity with unwavering determination.***