Understanding Your University Grades

Hi,

It's that time of the year again at USM, marking season! And let me tell you, I've wrapped up all my tasks, even the tricky analysis stuff in the OCADS system. It feels like a giant weight has been lifted off my shoulders for this semester. I'm so relieved, I could practically float! 😀

They are all done and will be put in the cupboard now. 

Being a university lecturer isn't just about standing in front of a class and sharing wisdom (though we do a fair bit of that!). It's a whole adventure, from conjuring up exam questions that'll make you think (or groan, depending on your caffeine levels 😉) to the secret life of exam invigilation, where we channel our inner detectives to ensure fair play as outlined HERE.

Once the pens are down and the final exams are collected, our real work begins, marking, analyzing results, and deciphering the mysteries of the grading system. And let me tell you, it's more than just adding numbers!

Think of your final grade as a delicious academic pizza, sliced into two main parts:

• Coursework (CW): This is your ongoing effort throughout the semester, like all those assignments, quizzes, tests and projects you tackle. It usually makes up  60% of your total mark. Most students find this slice pretty easy to chew on, as long as you actually complete the tasks! We lecturers diligently enter your CW marks into our magical OCADS system, which then whips up a preliminary grade for you.

• Exam Work (EW): Now for the other slice, the exam, which contributes the remaining 40% of your mark. After marking countless exam scripts (and maybe consuming a few too many coffees), we meticulously input these marks into OCADS. Poof! Another grade appears, specifically for your exam performance. As examiners, we take this super seriously. Personally, I'm like a hawk over those scripts, reviewing my marking a few extra times to make sure every single student gets the grade they truly deserve.

Next is generating your combined grade. Here's where it gets interesting, and perhaps a little mysterious for some students. You've got your CW grade and your EW grade, right? Well, the OCADS system then plays matchmaker, combining both to generate your final, official course grade.

Now, most of the time, the system is spot-on with our manual records. Sometimes, it might even give a student a slightly higher grade (and honestly, who am I to complain about that?). But, like any good superhero, even OCADS has its rare technical glitches that might, on occasion, result in a lower grade than what you earned. This is precisely why we lecturers play detective one last time, meticulously checking the final grades for each student. Our mission? To ensure no one gets treated unfairly by a rascal algorithm. 

Many students mistakenly believe that their coursework marks are simply added to their exam marks to get the final grade. So, if you've aced your coursework and are practically floating on an "A," you might think you just need a tiny push on the exam to seal the deal. Sorry, my dear students, it doesn't quite work that way!

Both your coursework and exam components are evaluated independently to generate their own explicit grades. So, to truly snag that excellent final grade, you need to bring your A-game to both the continuous assessments throughout the semester and the final examination. Think of it as needing to ace both the appetizer and the main course to get a five-star review for your academic meal!

Hopefully, this sheds some light on the wonderful (and sometimes wonderfully complex) world behind your university grades. 😊

When the World Stays Awake with You

Hi,

It's the middle of the night, and sleep feels like a distant. Maybe that quick nap I had earlier messed things up, or maybe it's just my mind buzzing with too many thoughts. It's funny how, even when we know thinking too much isn't good for us, it's so hard to turn it off. It's like one thought leads to another, and suddenly your mind is just full. It's like a tangled ball of string, each piece pulling at another, making it impossible to find an end and untangle it.

That's exactly how my thoughts feel right now. A tangled mess, with no clear beginning or end.

It's been too long since I just wrote freely, letting my thoughts flow onto the page without a plan. I have so many unfinished pieces saved, waiting. But tonight, there's just something I need to get out. It's like a feeling building up insi de, a quiet voice that needs to be heard, even if it's just by me, here in the quiet of the night.

Life can be tricky, right? You see people smiling, looking like they have everything together, but you never know the heavy worries they might be carrying inside. They might be putting on a brave face, a careful mask to get through the day, while deep down, they're fighting silent battles. And sometimes, it's the other way around. The quiet ones, the ones who seem to blend in, might be the ones with incredible strength, facing their own challenges with hidden power. It's a reminder that we rarely see all of someone's story.

So, no matter what kind of person you think you are, keep moving through life with all your might. You never know when you'll find your happiest moments. Embrace whatever part of your journey you're in right now, because every step is leading you somewhere.

Okay, I'm going to try some reading. Hopefully, that'll make me sleepy enough to finally get some rest. Until then, bye for now! 😊

My July Win

Hi,

Guess what, everyone? Just like that, July packed its bags and zoomed off. We welcome August today, bringing us even closer to the end of 2025! Can you believe it? Time flies without us even realizing it as we go through our lives.

For me, July was pretty remarkable because it was my most active month yet this year! I finally got into a super consistent groove with my daily cardio sessions. Seriously, I managed to stick to them almost every single day! I'd usually carve out about 30-40 minutes for it. Sometimes, I'd even kick things off with a quick 10-15 minute run on the machine just to get those sweat glands working overtime. Then, it was full steam ahead with the rest of my cardio routine!

Tracking my daily cardio sessions

Here's the cool part, sticking to this routine was shockingly easy! All you really need is yourself and a random YouTube video from your fave fitness channel. I love these two instructors, Mizi and Eleni! Their routines and music are fantastic, perfectly pacing and motivating us through our HIIT cardio workouts.

@MIZILEE

She perfectly represents Asian figures, so her videos resonate more with me.

@EleniFit

I'm loving her routines and music. She choreographs everything so well.

See, all you really need is a reference video, some space, and your own motivation. As for me, my gym is my dry kitchen. Why? Because the walls are mirrored, giving me total dance studio vibes! The only difference is, instead of a water cooler, I'm surrounded by yummy snacks in the fridge. Talk about motivation!😂

Oh, and to make it even better, I can literally wear whatever I'm comfy in. How? I sometimes get a little influenced by what the instructors in the videos are rocking. Haha! Us women, we're always inspiring each other, right? Since this is a do-it-alone-at-home-in-front-of-the-mirror kind of exercise, feel free to show off those thighs and abs if it pumps you up to get that flatter tummy and toned legs! 😉

Now, about the results... they're not exactly screaming ta-da! just yet. But hey, I've definitely lost a few inches, which I'm super happy about! The weighing scale, though? Not quite as cooperative. I've only shed about 2kg compared to the fasting month when I could drop 5kg like it was nothing (because I was quite strict with my food back then!).

This time around, I'm taking a more chill approach with my meals. I'm eating pretty much as usual, but of course, I'm keeping an eye on what I munch on daily, especially my sugar intake. You know me, sweet-tooth Amirah! I'm obsessed with desserts. Someone please physically drag me away from the kuih stall, because the temptation is real! Seri muka and cekodok pisang. How can I eat them every day without getting fat? Yeah, yeah, I can. Only in my dream. 😂

I often get asked what I eat to stay in shape? Ahh, a question as old as time. The quest for the mythical eat-all-you-want-and-still-look-amazing lifestyle. That's not realistic at all. I'd love to tell you there's a simple hack, like drinking green tea all day everyday. But to be honest, those days are long gone. At my age, the only way to eat what I want every day and keep my body in a shape I'm happy with is through hard work, hard work, and more hard work. 

My body is officially a democracy, and every calorie now requires a vote before it's burned. So, when people complimenting, I just smile and know that the real credit goes to my alarm clock that goes off at 5 AM and the sweat-drenched sessions I commit to daily. Failure to do so will result in my clothes developing a sudden, mysterious aversion to fitting, and gravity doing its worst. 😅

However, what truly matters is your happiness and satisfaction with your body. If you're content with your current physique, then absolutely, embrace it! Just be sure to schedule regular health check-ups. Beyond that, simply enjoy life! 💕

A House Full of Play

Hi,

It's another calm weekend, which for some reason, always means it's time to sort through another mountain of stuff. This time, the kids' multipurpose room is calling my name. It's a treasure trove of books, toys, and enough stationery to open a small office supply store. Seriously, why do I find myself on these sorting adventures? It's like my superpower is finding chaos to organize. 🦸‍♀️

Our living room? Well, let's just say it's more of a playground than a living room. We've got a foosball table, a large trampoline, a slide, and even the occasional Beyblade tournament. We're talking a full-on play area! My kids have basically turned the living room into their personal stadium, playing soccer and badminton right in the middle of it all. It's a good thing we only have a sofa, a dining table, and a TV hanging on the wall. Aesthetics? What aesthetics? My style is let the kids run wild and free. 😂

It's all worth it, though. I'd rather have a chaotic, playful home now than a spotless, museum-like space. This way, we can all hang out together, even if that means a stray shuttlecock landing on my head or a remote-controlled car ploughing through my perfectly folded laundry. 😅 It's the little joys of being a mom, right?

On a side note, the kids know the golden rule, one toy out at a time. And when they're done, everything has to go back to its designated home. It's a system that keeps the chaos from turning into an impossible-to-walk-through mess, most of the time. This way, our living room can transform from a soccer field to a quiet reading corner in minutes. Well, maybe not minutes, but eventually.

I know this phase won't last forever. One day, the trampoline will be retired, the foosball table will gather dust, and the living room will be quiet. The kids will be big, with their own interests and their own rooms to hide in. That's when I'll finally get to redecorate and create that Pinterest-perfect living room I've always dreamed of.

I dream of a small, cozy living room with a giant glass wall, perfect for stargazing. ✨️ 

But for now, I'm happy to embrace the chaos. I’ll keep navigating the obstacle course of toys and dodging stray shuttlecocks. This is our home, and right now, it's a home full of life, laughter, and a whole lot of play. 😊

From Equations to Everyday Life: Student Research

Hi,

Today, I want to talk about the four projects my students presented a couple of days ago. Alhamdulillah, everything went perfectly for all of them! They presented their work confidently and handled every question calmly. Most importantly, they truly showcased the diverse applications of mathematics in real life, something I always strive to instil in them.

Such happy faces! They were incredibly nervous before their presentations, but all smiles once they'd crushed it.

Aina kicked off the presentations with her insightful topic: Modelling Public Opinion Propagation in Technological Disasters

Imagine trying to figure out how people react when a disaster happen, like the Petronas underground gas pipeline. She explored a math model, kinda like tracking a cold's spread, but this model is to see how public opinion shifts upon receiving the news. It breaks everyone into four groups: the unaware, the lurkers (quietly watching), the spreaders (sharing info), and the stiflers (who stop caring). She factored in things like disaster severity, government actions, who's to blame, and media vibes to see how these groups are influenced. She dug deep into the math to understand how things settle, how fast info spreads, and if the system stays stable. She even proved theoretically that small changes can totally flip public sentiment, and her model actually works to show how public opinion moves during real crises.

Next up was Afifah, who delved into the Mathematical Relation between Collision Risk and Speed.

Everyone knows how dangerous speeding is right? Have you ever wonder how things work, mathematically? So, she dives into that, using two main mathematical ideas, the Power Model and the Exponential Model, to show how different speeds impact both crash frequency and severity, based on some real data. She crunched the numbers, fitting these models to actual accident data, and then checked how good they were at predicting injuries and fatal crashes. She found that while the Power Model is easy to understand, the Exponential Model actually does a better job of matching what really happens on the road, especially when cars are going really fast. Essentially, picking the right way to analyze speed and using good data is crucial for making our roads safer and managing traffic effectively.

Then Ain captivated the room with her work, resonating with everyone as she discussed on Modelling the Impact of Peer Pressure on Obesity Dynamics.

Now, ever notice how your friends' food habits can totally rub off on you? Like, suddenly everyone's craving that new burger joint? Sounds familiar? 😂Well, her work explored clever math to see how peer pressure can actually make obesity spread like wildfire! She categorized people into normal weight, at-risk, obese, and quitters, finding that even a little nudge from your buddies, especially with fast food, makes a huge difference. In fact, her finding showed that if peer pressure for unhealthy habits hits a certain point, obesity can actually become the norm, uh oh! This just goes to show how powerful your social circle is, highlighting why tackling unhealthy social behaviors early on is super important if we want to keep everyone healthy.

Finally, Nazifa wrapped up the session by presenting her fascinating work on Analyzing the Dynamics of Social Media Addiction: A Mathematical Modelling Approach.

She talked about how your phone always calling you back for just one more scroll that represents social media addiction and how it spreads very perfectly. Her model basically sorted folks into five groups: those susceptible to the digital buzz, the exposed (who've just peeked at a cat video), the fully addicted (send help!), those who've recovered (the lucky ones!), and the quitters (the true heroes who deleted TikTok. Though, let's be real, actually belonging to quitters group in real life feels almost impossible these days!). She proved that even tiny nudges, like a new notification sound or a perfectly timed meme can seriously affect how many people get hooked. She made everyone in the room understands why we can't resist checking our phones, offering clues on how to  tackle the digital shackles and get back to, you know, real life. Err, okay girl, okay. I'm busted. 😅

These were the projects! As I mentioned before, while they didn't quite revolutionize any theories, hey, they only had three months! The team successfully applied their math skills to real-world problems. Now they have something tangible to discuss when they leave the nest. You know, even my own family still sometimes wonders what I actually do as a mathematician, so these kinds of projects really help demystify our work. 😂

Total celebration time! We completely ditched talking about work and just chatted about life. I even told them to enjoy single life and not rush into getting hitched, LOL! 😜

That's all for now! Not sure when I'll be back. Constantly adjusting to life seems to leave me speechless these days. See you again soon, hopefully! Bye! 

Celebrating My Pandemic Children

Hi,

What a busy week it's been in the School of Math! It's all about final year presentations, and let me tell you, the math-a-thon is in full swing. Tomorrow, I have four students I've been advising presenting their projects. Wish them luck!

I'm also on the panel for six other projects this week. Four wrapped up today (phew!), with one more on Wednesday and the final one on Thursday. Reading these Final Year Projects (FYP) is always a blast. It's like a mathematical treasure hunt! The topics are so varied and genuinely fun. While they might not be ground-breaking theories, it's fascinating to see how these bright minds explore so many real-world applications of math. Who knew numbers could be so adventurous? 😉

With Intan Nuraini. She may be small, but this girl is absolutely bursting with energy!

Ain Suraya and Hasliza. I've witnessed first-hand their incredible resilience, watching them bounce back even after facing tough times.

This batch of students is about to graduate with their Bachelor's Degrees, and a wave of happy tears is definitely coming. Why, you ask? Because my very first group of students I advised are among them! I affectionately call them my COVID-19 children because our first "meeting" was virtually, during the pandemic. Our communication mainly happened through the wonderful world of online platforms. Can you imagine starting your university life without even stepping foot on campus? It was a wild ride, but I tried my best to make sure they still felt connected and enjoyed their first year, even if it was through a screen.

Once the pandemic decided to pack its bags and they finally arrived at USM for physical classes, we started a beautiful tradition, pizza parties at the end of every semester! Being an academic advisor isn't just about handing out advice, it's about making sure these young minds get the right guidance to not only graduate on time but also choose courses that truly spark their interest and align with their strengths.

I'm really going to miss our lively gazebo parties! Academic advising sessions were always so much fun with the never-ending flow of pizza and boba tea.

I've watched them grow from being a little naïve and unsure of themselves, making a few 'oopsie' decisions (some even hitting the P1 and P2 stages, don't worry, those are just academic pit stops, not permanent parking spots!). But they didn't give up! They buckled down, caught up, and are now ready to graduate with their friends. It's truly inspiring. 

No matter the hurdles they faced, I truly hope they gained something valuable from me, the school, and their time at USM. My biggest wish is that these past four years have felt like a second home to them, and they know they're always welcome back, pizza parties or not! 🍕🎉

Calm in the Little Things

Hi,

Just now, the sky above my place suddenly opened up, giving us a heavy burst of rain! It feels like forever since we've had rain this strong. But it didn't last long, just a quick sprinkle, like the rain was saying hello. And just as I was enjoying watching the drops fall against the window, it stopped. It made me think that rain, like many other beautiful things in life, comes and goes quickly, but it always makes us feel calm and peaceful while it's here.

My weekend was pretty calm and usual. Nothing exciting happened, just a typical weekend when I don't leave town. So, like other quiet weekends, I decided to tidy up something in my house. This time, I took on my overflowing collection of scarves!

I went through them all, picking out the ones I wear often. The rest, the ones I haven't worn in over six months, I carefully put aside. I plan to give them away to people who need them when I get the chance. I mostly wear square scarves, so I got rid of all my long shawls. I only kept a few that mean a lot to me or were gifts. The rest will soon find new owners.

It feels so good to get things sorted out like that! There's something truly calming about arranging everything just so by color, size, and pattern. It's more than just tidying up, it's almost like a therapy session for my mind. When I bring order to my physical space, it feels like I'm also untangling thoughts and calming my mind.

Now, my collection only holds square scarves. I've organized them neatly, separating the solid colors from the printed designs.

Okay, that's all for now! It's time for me to head to bed. Work will be back to its usual routine tomorrow. Until then, see you! Bye for now!

Life's Shifting Adventures

Hi!

Lately, I've noticed my publishing finger has been a bit quiet on the keyboard. It's not for lack of things to say, my brain is practically overflowing with stories and I've got a bunch cooking in drafts! But sometimes, those stories are just meant to be cozy little secrets, right? So yeah, let's keep those tales stay tucked away for personal enjoyment, at least for now.😉

This quiet spell has really got me thinking about how much we evolve. It also made me wonder: what's the wildest thing I've done lately? My younger self was an absolute whirlwind. From spontaneous 400km day trips to private beaches, to scaling mountains just for a legendary bowl of hot soup, and even bold solo escapades across the globe. She was definitely all about those no-second-thoughts adventures!

Fast forward to present day, and my definition of crazy is a tad different. Now, I'll literally cross the country border, indulge in my favorite massage, spend the night, and then nonchalantly return to regular life the next morning. Whatever it takes to keep the sanity meter from hitting zero, right? That's my current level of extreme, it's amazing how our definitions of adventure change!

So homey! The kind of setting I love.

It's a powerful reminder that treating ourselves well isn't always about ticking off bucket lists. Sometimes, the wildest and most important thing we can do is simply listen to what our bodies and minds truly need. In a world that constantly asks us to do more, be more, give more, the most rebellious and vital act we can commit is to unapologetically prioritize our own well-being.

Ultimately, what counts isn't the grandeur of the adventure, but how it fuels your spirit. Taking care of ourselves, in whatever form that takes, is always worth the journey. With all that said, please take good care of yourselves out there. Stay healthy, be kind to your mind, and keep shining as your best, most authentic self.

Love, A.

A Note from Within

Dear Amirah,

Here's a note for you.

It seems like you're carrying a heavy load right now, and it's completely understandable to feel down, especially when someone you care for is hurting.

You're a resilient person. You know how to push through your own challenges, dictate your own mind, and get back up when life knocks you down. That's an incredible strength, a testament to your inner power. You've always trusted yourself to handle things well, emotionally, spiritually, and in every other way.

But here's the thing, when it comes to someone else, especially someone you're responsible for, it's a different kind of pain. You can't control their feelings, and you can't just tell them to "be strong" the way you tell yourself. That's a heavy burden, feeling their hurt and wishing you could make it better. It's okay to feel overwhelmed by that.

This moment, though tough, is also a reminder of your deep compassion and sense of responsibility. It shows just how much you care. And while you can't fix everything for them, your presence, your empathy, and your unwavering support are powerful in themselves. Keep trusting that inner strength, not just for yourself, but to be the anchor for those who need you. You've got this, even when it feels incredibly hard.

Love, A.

Catching Up on My Corner of the World

Hi,

Well hello there! I hope everything is going great for you. My weekend was mostly about making my house super clean and nice. You know, giving it a good old refresh! So, I did a lot of deep cleaning, which is basically scrubbing every nook and cranny to make sure it sparkles. The rest of the time was just my usual routine, a mix of errands and chill time.

And guess what else? My kids are getting ready for some big events! They have their Taekwondo tournament coming up, where they'll be showing off their awesome kicks and punches, and a swimming competition too, where they'll be splashing their way to the finish line. Both of these are happening in August, so my weekend schedule has been pretty packed helping them with their practices and training. I'm basically their personal cheerleader and taxi driver these days! 😂

Amidst all that, I actually managed to snag some really good rest! Seriously, getting a full 8 hours of sleep is like hitting the jackpot for me, especially on days when school's in session. So, I made sure to take full advantage of the weekend and sleep in a lot. Ahh, it feels so incredibly good to wake up feeling totally refreshed and ready to go! It's like my brain finally got a much-needed reset.

Anyway, it's study week now in the academic calendar, which means my schedule is a bit more relaxed. Hooray for that! But I still have a few important things I've already planned. One of the most exciting is a special lunch treat for minor project girls. They've been working super hard these past few months, putting in so much effort, so they absolutely deserve a delicious reward! We've decided to try the new cafe that just opened at USM. I'm really excited to see if it's as good as the other one I usually go to on the mainland. My taste buds are definitely ready for an adventure!

Oh, my pretty girls! They had their final year dinner, and guess what the theme was? Arabian Night! I apparently missed that memo big time! 😂 I'm definitely not an abaya person. Good thing a simple black dress is always there when you need it! 

Okay, that's all for now! I'll definitely pop back in with more updates if I have time. Until then, see you soon. Bye!

My Semester Wrap Up

Hello weekend, is that you?! I've been waiting! 

It's very late, I know. But I just got back from a dinner escapade. (Details to follow in a highly anticipated, potentially never-written post, because... life. 😬). Okay, okay, I will. As soon as I get the chance to do it.

As per tradition, a night out means my chores decided to go on strike. So here I sit, a captive audience to my washing machine's spin cycle, proving that even exciting evenings end with domestic duties. Skipping laundry is just not an option unless I want to live in a future where my laundry basket stage form a textile Everest. Nope, not today! 😂

Big news, though, the semester is officially done! My Test 2 papers are still waiting for their grand finale, but I'll tackle those over the long weekend. Then, next week, it's time to face my nemesis: the OCADS system. I think I'm gonna start preparing all the coursework marks ready in a separate file, then just plop them into the system. Easy peasy (hopefully)!

Soon after, the final exams will hit. Thankfully, I'm splitting the marking load with a colleague, so at least half my sanity will remain intact! Ah, this reminds me of getting my new favourite red pen from Popular. A reason to visit a bookstore over this weekend. 😉

Enthusiastic girls. They're practically in a competition to be the first to get to the board and write solutions!

Complete attendance for the final lecture. Their cooperation truly made this course a blast.

And that's the quick update! To all in Penang, enjoy your long weekend! My thrilling plans involve deep cleaning the house and a mall visit. Boring, I know. But at least my weekend is sorted.. 😂

Redefining My Rhythm

Hi,

How's everything going for you? Well, things are going great on my end. I've actually shaken up my exercise routine this past week, and I'm really digging it so far! After a few years of trusty elliptical running, I figured it was time for a little tweak.

My daily mission is to hit 10,000 steps OR 30 minutes of exercise. If I nail either of those, I count it as a win for the day. Hitting 10K steps is a breeze if I'm on my feet all day at work. But if it's a chill day, I usually reach out around 5K-6K steps only. I know myself, I'll be frustrated if I don't hit my daily goal.

So, to make sure I always hit my mark, I've got a system. I've integrated it so thoroughly that I feel incomplete without its regular cycle. 30 minutes of running at home gets me a solid 3,000 steps, and then I will do a happy little dance with the vacuum cleaner to grab that final 1,000. By 10 PM, I can kick back, gaze at the stars, and know my 10K steps are officially conquered! Then I can finally call it a day.

Lately though, my body was getting a little too comfortable with the routine. How do I know? My heart rate barely hit 140 bpm anymore. So, I've spiced things up with 15-20 minutes of dedicated cardio, and boom! My heart rate easily jumps to 150 bpm. Though, I bet you could beat that by just making me nervous! 😉

All in all, I'm super happy with this new routine. Hopefully, in three months, I'll not only be healthier but also have a flatter "mommy's pouch"! Haha, let's be real, that's the real goal. Defining my own body, one step (and vacuum session!) at a time. My motivation? That electrifying feeling you get from Like Jennie official live performance video. 

Watch from 1:45 to the end. She absolutely crushed it! What a performance.

How Music Fuels My Focus

Hi,

Can you believe it's already the first of July? Happy new month, everyone! Just like that, we're halfway through 2025. Time really flies, doesn't it? It feels like only yesterday I was mapping out my plans for the year, and suddenly it's crunch time to see if I'm hitting them. Uh oh, not quite there yet, but I swear I'm putting in the work!

Anyway, I just noticed that it's that awesome time again! My Michael Learns To Rock (MLTR) playlist is officially on repeat, ready to play for me all day. And if I haven't said it before, let me tell you, every single song by the legendary MLTR is my absolute favorite! Seriously, I could pop their tunes on a 24-hour loop and be super happy with the music.

Back in my student days in Wollongong, that's exactly what I did, especially when I needed to really get into my reading. Their music became the perfect background music for my study sessions. I'd turn the volume way down, just enough for a soft sound in the background, like a musical whisper, not a loud concert, so my brain could still do its hard work.

My special study trick? Slow MLTR songs for reading and writing notes, helping me take in every word without my mind wandering off. But when it was time to dive into coding, I'd play their faster songs a bit. Why the musical switch? Well, my brain gets bored easily, and I've learned that if I don't change things up, I'll just be staring at my screen dreaming of chocolate muffin instead of debugging. So, changing my study routine, with MLTR as my sidekick, was (and still is!) the key to keeping my work moving forward.

Well, I can't tell you the exact science behind it and why it helped, but it totally worked like a charm! And now, as I'm dealing with lots of PhD theses, MLTR is back again. Ah, the memories! It's like a warm, nice musical feeling that takes me right back to those good old days. If only I could bottle up that feeling and go back in time!

This picture gives me total déjà vu ! It's one of my favorite reading spots. With my notebook, some MLTR songs from iTunes, I could happily spend hours there. Just me, my thoughts, and the music.

Speaking of music, I really love listening to live music, but I'm definitely not a concert person. I just don't fancy crowded places, you know? All those people jostling around, it's just not my cup of tea. But oh, how I wish I could somehow magically attend an MLTR live performance!

I know, I know, that doesn't really make sense, does it? My 'no crowds' rule and a 'live concert' wish don't exactly jive. But hey, a person can dream, right? Just imagining being there, hearing their voices, feeling the music in the air (without, you know, being squished by a thousand other fans), it just feels so good to imagine. Maybe one day they'll do a special, un-crowded, live concert experience just for folks like me!😂

Alright, that's it for now! And what a way to kick off July, right? I hope your July is starting with a bang too, maybe you're rocking out to your favorite tunes or surrounded by your favorite people (or both, if you're really living the dream!). Embrace everything around you, even if it's just the chaotic beauty of your to-do list. Let's make this month epic! Toodles!💃

Beyond the Screen

Hi,

I finally sat down to watch "How to Train Your Dragon," and I'm still buzzing from the experience. Honestly, I went in with mild expectations, thinking it would be a pleasant enough kids' movie. Boy, I was wrong! From the opening scenes, I was completely hooked, and it kept me captivated right up until the credits rolled. Even the kids were absolutely glued, which, as any parent knows, is a victory in itself!

Keeping these two little humans glued to the screen for two whole hours? Now that's a success. 😎

What truly made this film shine for me was the incredible bond that forms between Hiccup and Toothless. It’s not just a boy and his pet dog (or dragon, in this case), it's pure understanding, trust, and a love that just melts you. Their journey together is seriously moving, proving that the best friendships often hatch from the most unexpected eggs.

And speaking of Toothless… oh my goodness, that dragon! Who knew a "Night Fury" could be so adorable? His design is brilliant, a perfect blend of fearsome power and playful charm. Who knew a dragon built for terror could be such a squishy, adorable goofball? Every wiggle, every curious head tilt, just pure magic. He’s the undisputed star, stealing hearts faster than a dragon can snatch a sheep at The Isle of Berk. 

What really stood out was Hiccup. Forget your muscle-built Viking clichés. He's a bit scrawny, a bit awkward, and definitely not the village's top dragon slayer. But his kindness and charm? Those are his real superpowers. He taught us that true bravery isn't about flexing muscles, but about opening your mind and heart, turning enemies into friends, and showing the world that empathy can literally change everything.

I couldn't help but geek out a little over the deeper layers of Hiccup’s journey? It's basically our academic mission statement! He didn't just accept the facts about dragons, he was a one-man research team, applying critical thinking and observation like a pro. He experimented, he failed (a lot, often with hilarious results), and he kept learning. Sounds typical in academia, right? 😅

His genius was also in his interdisciplinary approach. He blended knowledge with empathy, and err... a little bit of stubbornness. That's a huge lesson for us whereby the best breakthroughs often happen when we stop sticking to just one textbook and start mixing ideas from all over the intellectual and cognitive skills. And his ability to bridge centuries of fear with pure understanding? That's the dream for any researcher trying to connect with complex subjects or diverse perspectives. 

Well, I know it's easier said than done, right? But as Hiccup proved, you never truly know what's possible until you take that leap and prove it for yourself. I'm definitely taking some powerful lessons from this dragon's tale to fuel my own academic pursuits. Wish me luck!

The Balancing Act

Hi,

It's another one of those "sky is crying" days, isn't it? The kids, with their happy little splashes, are having the best time in the pool. Seriously, these little humans find joy in the smallest puddles, don't they? I'm over here trying to read a good book, but I'm also keeping one eye on my book and the other on my tiny, wet rascals. It's like trying to do two things at once, or maybe just a good way to get my book soaked. 😅

Lost in our own little world, perfectly in our element. Pure bliss! ✨

Speaking of my little rascals, this weekend is all about them! Tomorrow, we're heading to IOI Putrajaya to finally watch "How to Train Your Dragon." My kids have been bugging me about this movie since they saw the first trailer. Honestly, I think they're more excited about the popcorn and chicken nugget from GSC. 😑

Anyway, switching from dragons to actual brains! My email inbox has been overflowing with requests from people requesting me to guide their Master's and PhD studies. It's like a flood of smart people, all suggesting projects that really match what I like to research. And while it's super nice to be asked, I'm currently thinking really hard about whether to take on more students.

My biggest worry? Time! Adding more students to my already busy schedule feels like trying to squeeze another elephant into my tiny green car. I mean, how do other supervisors do it?! My students pretty much check in with me every week, or at least every two weeks. It's like a never-ending story of "What have you done lately?" (but in a nice way of course!).

Right now, I'm guiding eight PhD students. Yep, eight! It's practically a small army. But good news, three of them are almost done with their first draft, so soon I'll only have five. Ah, that's a relief! Five sounds much easier to handle, which means I might be able to take on one or two more.

Honestly, finding new students isn't hard especially since many of them even have their own scholarships (bonus!). But I've learned to be picky these days. I'm not just looking for smart people, I'm looking for students who really, really want to learn. Maybe a quick chat before they start will help me find those who are truly ready to work hard, and not just those who want an easy ride.

I'm genuinely not sure what to do. Am I crazy for even thinking about taking on more, or is there some secret trick to managing my time better that I don't know about? To be frank, I'm on the fence. 🤔

Okay, that's all for now, folks! My tiny humans are transforming into hungry beasts looking for sustenance, so kitchen duty calls! Here's to a weekend full of good vibes, whether you're chasing dragons or just chasing peace and quiet! Have a great one! 

Late Night Ramblings

Hi,

It's past midnight here in bustling KL and guess what? I'm still wide awake! My bed is probably giving me the side-eye right now, wondering why I haven't graced it with my presence. Maybe it's this new location (my KL abode after a long drive), or maybe, just maybe, I'm so utterly exhausted that my brain has entered a defiant "no-sleep" zone. After a truly epic day, you'd think I'd be out like a light!

Can you believe we're already in Week 14 of the academic calendar? It feels like just yesterday the semester kicked off, and now all my lectures and tutorials are officially done and dusted! High fives all around! Next week, my students face their final hurdle with Test 2, and then it's a two-week sprint to the finish line before the grand finale, the final exams. We're so close, I can practically taste the end-of-semester freedom!

I've also successfully navigated the whirlwind of HFE224 supervision. Their reports are evaluated, presentations are done, and marks submitted. They were such an energetic and cheerful bunch! In fact, I even told one of them, Alyssa Jane, that she should absolutely go for host casting. Seriously, her voice is pure gold, perfect for a news presenter or a TV host. Who knows, maybe I've just discovered the next big media personality!

Wrapped up HFE224 with Danny, Alyssa, Wei Xuan, and Afrina. You guys rocked it. See you next semester for MAT223!

Next up, my four Final Year Project (FYP) students are waiting in the wings to present their work. This year, I'm supervising an all-girl squad, and they are truly a group of smart, hardworking young women. I'm really hoping they learn a ton from this experience with me. Oh, and speaking of them, I just remembered I still need to schedule our traditional lunch! It's a must-do for me, a little celebration both before and after they complete their projects. Good food, good company, and a well-deserved break for all of us!

I'm so glad I managed to wrap up all those meetings before heading off on my KL trip. I hit the road at 3 PM, and thankfully, it was a super smooth drive all the way. After two quick breaks, I rolled into KL around 8 PM. A much-needed dinner stop in Uptown Damansara recharged me, and I finally got home at 10 PM. What. A. Very. Long. Day. Seriously, my body feels like it's run a marathon!

And just like that, an incredibly packed day gives way to a moment of calm, with the KL skyline stretching out before me as I try to unwind. 😊

Can you spot them all? Merdeka 118 standing tall on the leftmost, the iconic Petronas Twin Towers glowing like stars, and The Exchange 106 joining the lineup of KL's giants!

Unusual Saturday Story

Hi,

It's the weekend and this is exactly what I've been waiting for! It means I get to spend more of my mornings at home. Usually on weekdays, I'm out the door super early, like around 6 or 6:10 AM, just to beat that crazy traffic to work. My workplace, USM, is about 35 kilometers away. Normally, it's only a quick 30-minute drive, but with heavy traffic, it can turn into a loooong 90-minute journey each way! So yeah, I always try to tweak my schedule to avoid being stuck in the car for ages every day.

So anyway, guess what exciting adventure I embarked on Saturday morning? Forget scaling Mount Everest or discovering ancient ruins. I faced my fears and headed to Pathlab for a blood test! Now, this wasn't just any spontaneous decision. The last time my precious bodily fluids were analyzed was way back in 2022. Yes, you read that right, three whole years ago! 

You see, I'm a firm believer that while the outside might look like a perfectly tuned sports car, the engine underneath could be running on fumes. So, armed with curiosity (and maybe a tiny bit of apprehension), I marched myself into Pathlab for a full health screening. After all, what's a little prick for peace of mind, right?

And get this, they're having a deal so good, it's practically a steal! We're talking 62 complete tests, plus 10 cancer markers, and a HST Test, all for a mere RM357. That's like getting a VIP pass to see what's happening inside for the price of a fancy dinner! Seriously, you might want to check out their Facebook page because deals like this don't come around every day. 

Pathlab's promo runs until June 30th, and I added RM60 for the HST test.

Now, the waiting game begins. I get to pick up my results on Wednesday, and I'm crossing every finger and toe that everything's going along nicely in there. 🤲

But my day of excitement didn't stop there! As the sun began to set, I swapped my curious medical patient hat for something a little snazzier and headed to the Math Society gala dinner. From vials of blood to equations and algorithms, my Saturday was truly a mix of everything!

With Nash, the head of MathSoc who's a huge help to the school and me.

Recently, I've been spending quite some time working with these smart students. They were incredibly helpful in so many ways. I knew that showing up at their important event would make them incredibly happy. And honestly, it made me happy too! Sharing dinner with them and seeing their joy was really heartwarming. I remember being exactly where they are now, full of youthful energy and big dreams. Events like these aren't just about food; they're about celebrating hard work, making new friends, and creating memories that stick with you forever. 

It was a genuinely fun night, full of laughter and a pleasant trip down memory lane to my own student days. So, that was my Saturday, a perfect blend of health check-ups and heartwarming connections! All in all, a pretty epic day.

Right now, I'm currently enjoying my best after midnight life, serenaded by the washing machine as I try to get some writing done. Guess a Mom life never truly clocks out, does it? And always include a laundry basket! 😂

My Mid-June Mix-Up!

Hi,

Okay, here we go! It's me and my words again, and honestly, I'm a little bit confused right now. I'm feeling so torn in between so many things, and it's just so hard to make decisions on stuff that feels way beyond what my brain can even process! Some things really need a good chat, but if that discussion doesn't happen, well, it's just so tough to make a smart choice. But you know what? It's okay, let's just forget about it for now!

Speaking of other things, get this: I accidentally tripped over my ankle yesterday! Well, that's just typical me! I can be quite clumsy sometimes, always keeping things interesting!😂I thought it was nothing big, but somehow the pain has stuck around. It's not like, super painful, but it's definitely there. Fingers crossed the pain decides to pack its bags and leave real soon!

Anyway, the third week of June is finishing up, and this month has been absolutely jam-packed! My personal calendar is probably the fullest it's ever been. Juggling everything is definitely a challenge, but hey, I'm still doing good so far! 

Whenever there's a school event, you can always count on seeing these faces there! They're my amazing crew! 

Alright, weekend, let's do this! My list is already packed with plans, and I'm totally ready to rock it! Until then, have a wonderful weekend everyone. Catch you later, bye!

Seizing the Day

Hi,

Good morning from Penang! It's Tuesday, and while there’s no lecture on my schedule today, my calendar is already buzzing. I’ve got a long list of tasks staring me down, and the day is shaping up to be a true test of focus and time management.

My view: Soaking in the sky's simple beauty.

You know those days when you look at your schedule and wonder how you’ll fit it all in? Today is one of those! Every viva on my calendar means four dedicated hours are set aside. That leaves just a few precious hours for everything else. My day is packed with back-to-back student meetings, and later, an important Zoom call with a potential research collaborator. My fingers are crossed that everything turns out to be fruitful today – I'm pouring a lot of energy into these interactions!

As I wait for my first student meeting this morning, I'm taking a moment to simply write. And let me tell you, it feels so good to put thoughts down. It’s funny how we communicate, right? There are basically two ways to share what’s going on in your daily life. One is talking to a person, and for me, I find comfort in connecting with you, my virtual readers.

Sometimes, life just doesn’t allow for much time to chat with others, not just about work, but about life in general. But I truly believe it’s incredibly important to find a way to express yourself. Whether it’s a quick chat with a friend or scribbling notes in a quiet moment, these connections keep us grounded.

So, as I dive into this busy Tuesday, I'm grateful for these little pockets of time to reflect and share. Wish me luck for a productive and rewarding day! And to all of you out there, I hope you have a fantastic and fulfilling day too, wherever you are! 

Aligning My Stars

Hi,

It's another night for some serious thinking, though not that serious. I rarely get the luxury to sit down and truly reflect on myself, so when the opportunity arises, I take it. I'm writing this down so my future self will know that I was also taking care of 'her' despite all the other responsibilities I'm juggling.

The last few days were a bit chaotic. I was working on something that didn't quite turn out as planned. It was a bit disappointing at first, especially after investing so much effort, to see things not go according to plan. However, after a thorough discovery session regarding my readiness, I've decided to slow-cook this idea, perfecting its flavor so it truly serves the subject's best interest, not just my own.

It's somehow been a powerful realization that some things are best done slowly, like a perfectly brewed cup of coffee. Building a strong foundation is key, and the biggest lesson for me has been to truly understand my "why." Am I doing this for the sheer joy of personal gain, or is it for the bigger picture, to genuinely benefit others? Turns out, the latter feels way better!

Once I made that decision, the universe apparently got the memo because everything suddenly started to align. Like today, I unexpectedly met two secondary school teachers from the "Pengetua in training" program, Ms. Lam and Mr. Lem.

A brief encounter with Ms. Lam from SMJK Sacred Heart, Balik Pulau and Mr. Lem from SMK Taman Sejahtera, Bukit Mertajam. 

They basically popped out looking for opportunities to collaborate, and somehow, the cosmic GPS guided them right to me! I was absolutely thrilled to cooperate, mostly because I know I could gain so many secret weapons from their experience in teaching SPM Mathematics AND Additional Mathematics, two most hated subjects for SPM candidates. Think of it as a Jedi training for my brain! 😂

And just like that, I feel like my direction is finally set and clear. I need to take some time to strategically mapping out my next moves, focusing particularly on solidifying the groundwork. I'm currently so happy and excited about this path! 😊

Alright, enough thinking for tonight. It seems stargazing really means a lot to me. Have a wonderful weekend, everyone! Catch up soon. Bye!

An Eid al-Adha Tale

Hi,

Happy Eid al-Adha, or as we call it here, Raya Haji or Raya Qurban! While many are focused on the Hajj season and the sembelih lembu (it's a public event!), I'm mostly excited about the public holiday perks. Come on, who doesn't right? 😉

Guess what, I kicked off Raya night with a movie marathon at Gurney Plaza – the only spot still showing "Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning", while the kids were busy with "Karate Kids Legends." That night outing was a blast for all of us, although quite unexpected for the night before raya!

As usual, every Raya Qurban, kids have been waiting to be the spectacular of their Tokwan doing the sembelih. Especially Adam, I still remember when I feel like tying him up because he wanted to poke the cow's eyes. Oh my Adam. 😂

Tokwan and his little apprentice! If I don't keep a close eye on him, he'll be on top of that cow in no time.

And speaking of personal victories, today marks the glorious return of my fingernails! As a qurbani this year, I've been on a 10-day no-cut challenge for hair and nails. So, get ready for some serious clipping today! 😁

So, that's my Eid story in a nutshell! I'm making the most of this holiday until Monday, then it's back to reality. Hope you had a truly blessed one!

The Little Boss in Me

Hi,

It's late, but the hum of the washing machine signals my designated "thinking and writing" time! There's something truly therapeutic about these quiet moments, especially when I get to spill all the thoughts that have been renting space in the rooms of my brain onto the page. Seriously, I always feel so much lighter and clearer after I write.

Life can be a funny thing, right? We're all out here trying our best, juggling responsibilities, chasing dreams, and sometimes, trying to figure out if that weird noise in the car is serious or not. Amidst all this, there's often one tiny little thing that trips us up more than anything else: ourselves. More specifically, that sneaky little thing called ego.

Peeling back the layers of my ego through self-reflection.

Imagine your ego as a mini-boss inside your head. It’s the part that really likes to be right, look good, and maybe even show off a little. It’s like that friend who always wants to choose the restaurant, even if you’re craving sushi and they know you don't favour pizza. Sometimes, this mini-boss gets a bit too loud, and it stops us from seeing things clearly or making smart choices.

For example, maybe you're trying to decide on a new project at work. Your ego might whisper, "Just say yes! You're super capable! Don't let anyone think you can't handle it!" even if deep down, you know you're already swamped. Or maybe you messed up, and your ego shouts, "It wasn't your fault! Blame the coffee machine!" instead of letting you learn from the mistake. It’s in these moments that your ego can actually keep you from making the best decision for you. It pulls you into its shadow, where you can't see the full picture.

So, how do we get this mini-boss to chill out and let us lead? It all starts with being honest with yourself. And I mean really honest. Not the "I swear I only had one cookie" kind of honest, but the "Okay, I totally ate the whole box, and I regret nothing (or maybe everything)" kind of honest.

Once your ego learns that you're in charge – that you can see through its little tricks and make decisions based on what's truly best – it starts to relax. It’s like a pet that finally understands you’re the one holding the leash (and the treats!). When your ego accepts that you're the one in control, it stops pushing you to hide in its shadow. Instead, it lets you step into the light, confident in who you are and the choices you make.

Remember, this isn't about getting rid of your ego entirely (we all need a little self-confidence!). It's about teaching it to be a helpful teammate, not a bossy tyrant. So, next time you feel that little voice trying to steer you wrong, just give it a gentle nudge and remind it who's truly in charge. You've got this!💪

Big Sister's Pride

Hi,

This post is especially for my wonderful younger sister, Fatin! Don't let her petite size fool you – she has the biggest, most unstoppable drive when it comes to her dreams.

Since I was little, I always wished for a younger sibling, and then she came along, making me the official big sister in the family! She's the third in our lineup, born four years after me. 

I remember taking my big sister duties super seriously, whether we were at home, at school, or practically anywhere else. That habit definitely sticks around, even now that we're all grown-ups – my younger siblings still come to me for just about anything!

Speaking of which, she once told me about her interest in working for herself, right after graduating from UIAM. She asked for my two cents, and I told her, "Go for it, if it makes you happy!" But I also remember saying, "Whatever you choose, make sure you really rock it!" And guess what? She totally did it!

That big sister role? It totally sticks with you, no matter how old we get!

She decided to focus on becoming a confinement lady, giving new mothers the best care possible. Alhamdulillah, she's been doing that for over 10 years now, and she has really built an amazing reputation for herself in the industry. Her dedication is so inspiring!

We might have totally different personalities, but we share one big goal: making our parents proud. And honestly, that's what truly counts! 😊

Seasons Shift, People Shine

Hi,

Did you know that June 1st is a really interesting day, not just for the calendar, but for nature too? Today marks a big meteorological change in the weather around the world. If you're in places like Europe, North America, or most of Asia (the Northern Hemisphere), you're officially welcoming summer today! That means longer days, warmer weather, and lots of sunshine. It's a time for outdoor fun and vibrant energy.

But down south, in places like Australia, New Zealand, or South America (the Southern Hemisphere), they're actually welcoming winter! I personally love the cold winter in the South. It's not usually as harsh as some northern winters, but it's still nice and chilly, especially near the beach. It’s perfect for me!

Winter in the South often means it's time to get cozy at home. You've got every good reason to just relax in your warm house, maybe in your favourite pyjamas, enjoying the heater without having to pile on layers just to go outside.

This cool switch in seasons makes June 1st even more special for all the amazing people who were born today. Just like the changing weather, these folks bring their own unique warmth and spirit into the world.

Whether they're as bright and lively as a summer's day or as comforting and cozy as a winter's evening, people born on June 1st have a special charm. They add their own bit of magic to life, whether it's through being creative, kind, a great leader, or just by bringing joy to those around them.

So, as we notice the seasons changing today, let's also take a moment to celebrate the wonderful people in our lives who have a birthday on this date. To all the fantastic June 1st birthday folks out there, no matter where you are or what season you're enjoying: Happy Birthday! I hope your day is full of happiness, warmth, and everything that makes you feel loved.