Be Flexible When Choosing Jobs - UTAR President

Kampar, July 12 - “Be flexible when choosing jobs,” Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) President Ir Professor Academician Datuk Dr Chuah Hean Teik said during a tea meeting with final semester students at the university’s Kampar campus here on Wednesday.

The would-be graduates had a rare opportunity to meet their president in person before finally receiving their scrolls.

“Although I reckon that accessing character, personality and passion is important for job matching purposes, be flexible when looking for job opportunities especially at entry level,” Chuah said to the students, advising them not to be picky when applying for jobs once they graduate.

Chuah added, “One may not get the job in the field that one desires, but put the utmost effort to try to make the most out of the current situation. After becoming financially stable, one may choose to switch jobs in order to pursue one’s dreams and passion.”

Students were also asked to weigh advantages and disadvantages of working in giant multinational corporations compared to small-medium enterprises.

Chuah said,“Prior to attending a job interview, there are three very important things one must conduct thoroughly if one is to be hired.”

As such, a complete and proper application letter, a thorough market survey, along with background research of the company of choice are vital processes that must be conducted by all job applicants.

In addition, Chuah noted that student leaders and those who participate actively in co-curricular activities, along with high academic achievers have a better fresh graduate competitive advantage when seeking for job opportunities upon graduation.

65 percent of school children will end up in jobs we have never seen right now by the time they graduate, Chuah said, explaining the importance of soft skills such as complex problem solving skills, creative and innovative skills, management and coordination skills, negotiation skills, as well as cognitive skills.

Chuah warned the students to uphold the guiding principle of always being virtuos and moral, stating, “A highly educated person will create more problems and bring much more harm to the society than an uneducated person if not acted upon morally.”

Students were excited to meet the president for the first time.

Public Relations student Chai Sin Yee, who is in a her final semester said this was her second time meeting the president

Chai, however revealed, “ This is the first time I am meeting him up close,” adding that the first time she met him was during the mass call.

Most students have yet to decide what they plan to do once they graduate as they may either choose to continue their studies or work.

Tan Yan Xin, 23, said, “I have not decided what I want to do next, but whatever it is, it will be in the area that I like for student interest is the most important element in order to have a successful career.”

When asked of her ideal job in mind, Tan, who is majoring in English Language, replied, “I would like to work in a public relations agency or a event management company as I am interested in providing customer service.”

Another student , Chong Kai Xiang explained, “I prefer to look for a job that requires regular working hours since it means that I can have more proper sleep and my daily routines will not be affected.”

The 24-year old Business Administration student added that he too has yet to decide whether to continue pursuing his studies at postgraduate level or immediately enter the market.

In the meeting, Chuah also reminded all students to be grateful to those who have nurtured and guided them throughout their lives, especially their parents.

He also advised students not to take their health for granted as without a clean bill of health, one would not be able to study and work effectively.

Besides, one would not be able to maximise their output and potential if one is sick.

Light refreshments were provided for all present as they mingled around.

Also present at the meeting were Dean for Faculty of Arts and Social Science, Assistant Professor Dr Alia Azalea, Dean for Faculty of Business and Finance Assistant Professor Dr Au Yong Hui Nee, Dean for Faculty of Engineering and Green Technology, Associate Professor Dr Yap Vooi Voon, Dean for Faculty of Science, Associate Professor Dr Lim Tuck Meng, as well as Dean for Faculty of information and Communication Technology Associate Professor Dr Liew Soung Yue.

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