Hello from Malaysia!
My exchange semester in Kuala Lumpur has been the most amazing time in my life (so far). This experience has taught me a lot about Malaysia and the Malay culture but also about myself. The most important lesson learned; communication is the key and sunscreen is a necessity!
The studies here have been somewhat challenging, including a lot of group assignments and getting used to working with people from different cultures and different levels of English skills. The lectures are usually held at two different ways, there is a theory part of the lecture and a practical part, which mostly consists of doing different excersices based on the theory. However, I have noticed that more than often the level of teaching and instructions doesn’t seem to align with the level expected in the examinations. Because of this the students have a lot of responsibility of mastering and understanding the subject.
While the form of speaking is more polite and hierarchy can be seen between the students and the teachers, I have noticed that punctuality is not always consistently observed, and maintaining a quiet and focused atmosphere in class sometimes proves challenging. Which in my experience differs a lot from TAMK, where the atmosphere is more relaxed but the students still respect being on time and are more focused during lectures.
During my free time I have had the opportunity to travel around Malaysia, enjoy the nature and wildlife, which has been amazing and so beautiful! I’ve also been able to explore multiple countries in South-East Asia during the holidays and weekends. Even though it has sometimes been a bit exhausting I wouldn’t change a single thing. Getting to know people from all around the world, making memories, building friendships and seeing places that I haven’t even dreamed of, makes me really grateful for this opportunity!
Terima Kasih Malaysia!
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