Written by: Sevinch Mirzakhmedova

Photos by: Sevinch Mirzakhmedova

From April to August 2024, I had an opportunity which allowed me to spend a semester at Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) as a mobility student. Before describing my incredible experience with UUM, I must first tell you about Malaysia and its people, who are always smiling, kind, helpful and humble. They asked all the time, “Did you have breakfast?” even our neighbours and tutors. Malaysia is one of the most breathtaking countries, especially in terms of nature and architecture, which I have experienced.

While at UUM, I studied for a Bachelor of Applied Linguistics and Business Administration with Honours  (BALBA). This program aims to produce graduates with an in-depth knowledge of English linguistics and business administration who can communicate effectively and think critically in various business contexts. I took advanced courses and learnt from some of the brightest minds in the field. I learned valuable information from Madam Norzanita Othman, Dr. Nurul Imtiaz, and Madam Che Hasniah Yaqob at SLCP.

I boosted my communication skills via their assignment, which gave us, for example, the communication subject in which we worked with international students in terms of group projects. I also improved my experiences and many others and deepened my appreciation for Malaysian culture and traditions. I also made friends from around the globe at UUM, exchanging stories and insights that broadened my understanding of the world. This exchange didn’t just enhance my academic journey; it fueled my passion for cross-cultural understanding and personal growth in sports knowledge in badminton and basketball.

One of the highlights was participating in the Langkawi organised by the Centre for International Affairs and Cooperation (CIAC) in July. It was an unforgettable trip in my life because it allowed me to get to know a variety of cultures and the education system of school, meet international students, share our experiences with each other, and have fun. I was in Penang, Perlis, and Kuala Lumpur, but Langkawi is one of the best places, and I will never forget it. Additionally, I appreciate the CIAC staff’s work and help,  especially Dr Arpah Abu Bakar, and Dr Norliza Katuk, as well as Madam Norshahida, Mr Azri, Dr Shazwanis Shukri, Mr. Muhammad Hafidz Baharudin, and Mr Amierul Husniey.

I created my enthusiasm in terms of hiking. I was in Bukit Bunga, located near the main gate of UUM. Also, Air Terjun Bukit Perangin has a dangerous but adorable nature. These experiences and many others deepened my appreciation for Malaysian culture and traditions. I also made friends from around the globe, exchanging stories and insights that broadened my understanding of the world. This exchange didn’t just enhance my academic journey; it fueled my passion for cross-cultural understanding and personal growth. I realised one thing: I have total energy to travel and opportunities to study wherever I want. I should do it without thinking, and we should use every single moment.

* Seva (Sevinch Mirzakhmedova) was a one-semester exchange student from Oriental University, Uzbekistan, who successfully completed her program at UUM and returned home on 8 August 2024. The Centre for International Affairs and Cooperation (CIAC), UUM, extends our heartfelt best wishes to Seva and her fellow students from Uzbekistan as they continue their academic journeys. We are deeply grateful that you chose UUM as your study destination, and we hope that our paths cross again in the future. May we meet again and continue to strengthen our bonds of friendship and collaboration.

Brought to you by:

Global Experience Unit

Centre for International Affairs & Cooperation