‘Take your Journey Slowly’ says AHAS KIRKHS Best Student (Academic) Nurhafizah

By, Afifah Syahmina and Shaheerah Dzaki

GOMBAK, 10 December 2025: “My advice is to take your journey slowly and steadily,” shared AHAS KIRKHS Best Student in Academic award winner, Nurhafizah binti Shahril towards students that are struggling in their studies.

Nurhafizah was conferred her degree in Bachelor of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Heritage in Arabic Language and Literature (Honours) in the sixth session of 41st IIUM Convocation Ceremony at the Main Hall of IIUM Cultural Centre (ICC) on 9 December 2025.

“There were days filled with stress, deadlines, and academic pressure, yet there were also beautiful days filled with friendship, support, and personal growth,” said Nurhafizah as she recalled her journey in IIUM.

Nurhafizah described her biggest challenge which is dealing with subjects that were difficult and concepts that she struggled to fully understand.

“However, Alhamdulillah, I was never alone. My lecturers consistently offered their guidance, and friends around me were always ready to help,” she remarked.

Nurhafizah’s main sources of motivation were her parents and family. Their constant prayers and encouragement became her strength.

Her small circle of close friends in IIUM also played a huge role in motivating and reminding her to keep going.

“Every challenge carries a lesson, and every hardship comes with growth,” Nurhafizah said. She learned to never give up despite how difficult the circumstances may seem throughout her journey in IIUM.

Nurhafizah shared IIUM has taught her that the keys to overcome academic or personal obstacle are perseverance, sincerity in seeking knowledge and reliance on Allah.

“Don’t compare yourself with others because everyone has their own pace and their own struggles,” advised Nurhafizah.

She also reminded that failure is not the end but it is simply part of the learning process.***