The People Who Stick

Hi,

Last night was one of those nights where my mind wanders back to the incredible people who've truly shaped my journey. I'm a firm believer in holding onto the connections that matter, especially those who leave a lasting imprint on my heart.

And among those cherished memories? My amazing girlfriends from my Wollongong days. Their stories often pop up in my "Most Read" posts, and each time, I get lost in those happy, carefree moments we shared. I can't imagine what my time in Wollongong would have been like without them. 

Bondi Beach, Australia Day 2012. What a vibe! 🇦🇺

These girls were there for all the good times, but even more importantly, they stood by me through the tough stuff. Remember how I'd walk over two kilometers, from Catherine Street all the way to Fairy Meadow, just for a McDonald's chocolate sundae whenever I was having a rough time? Well, these amazing girls were always right there with me, every single step of that delicious, misery-curing journey. 

And on those truly tough days, when I'd ask one of them to join me at the beach, no matter the hour, one of them would always be right there by my side. No questions asked, just their quiet company. They let me heal in my own way, but always, always, they were there.

It's easy to welcome people into your life during certain periods, but you never forget the ones who show up when you truly need them. But it's not just my Wollongong girls. There are some others who have left their mark, who saw something in me I didn't even see in myself. Guiding me through confusing times with wise words and quiet encouragement, the ones I can share anything with, knowing they'll listen without judgment. 😊

Trading Penang Pace for Jasin Peace

Hi,

Right now, I'm actually writing this from Jasin, Melaka! I'm back here for the school holidays. The last time we were in this cozy kampung was during Hari Raya. And well, here we are again! My main goal? Making sure the kids have an absolutely amazing time with Atok and Nenek at one of the most peaceful places in Malaysia.

Rainbow spotted on the way back to Jasin! Absorbing all the colorful good vibes to help brighten things up.

Fun fact time: Did you know Jasin is one of the 20 most happiest cities in Malaysia, recognized as part of the Malaysia Happiness Index? And it's been on that list almost every single year! It's really true; it's super calm here. You hardly see many cars. At a traffic light, there are usually no more than five cars waiting. If you see more than that, something's probably up – seriously, go check!😂 

Another cool thing I've noticed is how they build the houses in the kampungs. They all look so neat and spread out evenly, which is really pleasing to look at. So, if you're ever wondering the secret to a happy life, I'm pretty sure it involves quiet roads and perfectly spaced houses. It's definitely why the folks in Jasin seem like such happy people! 😄

Coming from a super busy place like Penang, it's really nice to just relax and soak in the calm vibes here. My life often feels like a constant race, and sometimes I just wish I could press pause and do things at a slower speed. Even though my body and mind can handle the busy life, deep down, I really want a simpler, more peaceful life.

But that dream probably won't happen until my kids can manage things on their own. So, maybe in, like, 20 years? I've even heard that being a mother doesn't really stop, even after your kids get married. Aaaaa! I still have a long way to go. 😩 But please, kids, let me at least enjoy my golden years with some peace and quiet, okay? Just a thought!

Now, you might be thinking, "Wow, what a relaxing break!" And it is, for the most part. But for me, the working mom life continues its usual rhythm. Even though I'm in a peaceful kampung, work will be as usual. Like today, I've still got my lecture and tutorial, just like any other week. Plus, I'll be busy panelling a few seminars on both Thursday and Friday. 

So, while this "break" feels like a mini-vacation, it's really particularly for the kids. For me, it's more like a change of scenery while the work grind resumes right on schedule. Anyway, that's life for now! Just embracing the chaos and the calm, although not quite a full break for Mom. 😊

Why Less Can Be More

Hi,

Alright, it's me again! My brain decided to open up for another round of slightly random ramblings. The past few weeks have been a whirlwind. I just wrapped up a marathon of three PhD vivas in three consecutive weeks. Yes, you read that right. Three. In a row. 💆

My main job became "professional thesis reader," and while I genuinely do enjoy diving into the depths of new research, let me tell you, when it comes to writing those examination reports? That, my friends, is a truly daunting task. It's like trying to summarize an entire epic novel.

Now, this might sound a bit controversial coming from an examiner, but I sometimes scratch my head wondering why a PhD thesis needs to be built like a brick house. My personal philosophy, especially in my role as an examiner, is to help make a thesis better. Not just thicker.

I'll never forget my own beloved supervisor. He had a knack for blunt honesty, and he once (lovingly, I think) called some of my early drafts "rubbish." His advice? "Remove them and focus on the contribution materials only." That tough love led to my own PhD thesis clocking in at a rather 120 pages. It was lean, mean, and hopefully, packed with actual novelty.

Then I look at most of the theses I examine these days, and they often sprawl across 250 to 300 pages. Now, don't get me wrong, I'm not saying a thick thesis is inherently bad. But it makes me wonder: why spend precious time meticulously crafting pages of "unnecessary things" when you could be shining a blinding spotlight on the main novelty and true contribution of your work? 

It's like baking a magnificent cake but spending half your time decorating the box instead of perfecting the flavor. Just a thought from your friendly neighborhood thesis minimalist!✌

Operation: Bye-Bye Bikes!

Hi,

Hey there, lovely readers! How's everyone doing? I've been bursting with stories to share lately, but finding the perfect "writing mood" feels like searching for a unicorn on a Tuesday. So, naturally, I ended up writing zilch. But since scribbling down my thoughts is my go-to therapy, here's a quick update from my corner of the world tonight.

So anyway, to the brilliant students who've somehow stumbled upon this little personal  space of mine – hello there! I hope you find something in these musings that sparks a tiny bit of inspiration. Trust me, I've been exactly where you are, back when the biggest stress in my life was whether I'd ace that next exam. If you're feeling the academic pinch right now, I totally get it. But honestly, five years from now, you'll look back at these university days (even the tough ones) with a fond smile. Those were the good old times, even if they felt like climbing Mount Everest backwards at the moment! 😂

Now, for a little adventure I embarked on with our fantastic school secretaries, Kak Siti and Azizah. Our mission? To reclaim our building's main entrance from the ever-multiplying motorcycle invasion. Seriously, it felt like they were having a convention out there! We sent out emails, pleaded, reasoned, and even tried staring intently at the bikes hoping they'd just poof disappear. No dice. Our main entrance was starting to look less like a grand welcome and more like a motorcycle parking lot. Urghh.

Then, like a lightning bolt of brilliance (or maybe just sheer annoyance), an idea sparked: pots and plants! Our cunning plan is to fill those empty, bike-magnet spots with lovely greenery. The hope is that when folks see a charming pot brimming with life, their common sense will kick in. They'll realize, "Oh, maybe I shouldn't park my thunder-steed here after all." Unless, of course, they're truly allergic to greenery and good manners. Fingers crossed, in the next few weeks, our main entrance will be bike-free and beautifully green.

I've put in a request for a small desk right in the main office with these two. Consider my job description officially evolving! Haha.

So, Kak Siti and Azizah, bless their plant-loving hearts, went on a plant-finding spree. When they told me the grand total, I might have swallowed my tongue a little. "Okay, okay, I'll handle the finances, you just focus on making our entrance fabulous!" I declared, channelling my inner fundraising aura. Believe it or not, I actually managed to get our little pots and plants project funded by my incredible colleagues! Huge shout-out and a massive thank you to everyone who chipped in for our little green revolution. Here's to banishing bikes and welcoming more green goodness! 😁

Alright, that's my scribble for the night! It felt good to get some thoughts down, even in this quick burst. Catch you all next time, whenever that may be. Take care! 😊

The Power of "Little" Time

Hi,

My morning kicked off with purpose: an early project meeting with students to get things moving. As soon as the meeting concluded, I was off to grab potluck goodies for Adam's school. You know those mornings when you're just on? That was me today!

Then came the highlight: diving into the Haji simulation at Adam's school. Wow! Just picturing all those precious little ones in their crisp white ihram and abaya is enough to melt anyone's heart. It was truly a sight to behold. And let me tell you, the teachers poured their hearts and souls into creating such an immersive experience. 

From the charming "aeroplane" ride (in Pakcik's van, of course – too cute!😍) to the miniature sembelih lembu (don't worry, it was symbolic!), they went the extra mile to bring such a significant cultural experience to life for the kids. It’s moments like these that make you appreciate the dedication of educators.

And then there's Adam, my quiet superstar of the day! Later, I discovered he was leading the team and even taking on the role of "cutting the cow" (in miniature, of course!) without a single word beforehand. It's those unexpected moments of quiet insight from your kids that truly make parenting such an incredible adventure, isn't it? He's clearly a boy full of delightful surprises! Adam, if you ever read this, please know I'm always incredibly proud of you, even when you send my heart rate soaring!

Adam was a star, and the tiny cow stole the show with its cuteness!

Snatching some quick smooches before heading to my lecture. It's a huge perk having my office just a three-minute hop from Adam's school, allowing me to be everywhere in a flash!

To squeeze all of that—including an hour of active participation in the simulation—into my morning before a 2-hour lecture at 10 AM? That's not just time management, that's pure magic! I literally ran everywhere from 8 AM to 12 PM, getting so much done in just four short hours. It really proved that even a "little" amount of time, when you're focused and driven, can yield huge results.

Now, as I prepare for school pick-up and then finally settle into my office, I'm going to take a well-deserved moment to breathe deeply and savor the incredible productivity of my morning. I've definitely earned that calm and focus for my afternoon tasks, the ones that don't require me to be constantly on the move!

What an inspiring example of how to tackle a busy day with grace, energy, and an open heart! I'm not just managing time; I'm making every moment count, especially when it comes to supporting my loved ones and embracing life's rich experiences.

First Lecture Bliss

Hi,

Well, hello there, second half of the semester! Just wrapped up my first lecture for Introduction to Modelling, and honestly, I'm buzzing. This isn't just any math course; it's where those tricky equations actually decide to behave and show up in real life. My goal? To make sure these students fall head over heels for it, just like I have. 

We're talking about those glorious 'aha!' moments where a lightbulb practically explodes above their heads. If I can get even one student to excitedly declare, 'Oh, that's why we needed to know proportionality relationship!', then my job for this week is done. Fingers crossed they enjoy it as much as I do!

Now, here’s the fun part: this is a 'compulsory elective' for the School of Math. Sounds like an oxymoron, right? Basically, it means fewer students, which is fantastic! Gone are the days of talking into a void of hundreds, wondering if anyone beyond the front row focused on my explanation of difference equation (Hello, next semester!😭). 

This class is shaping up to be wonderfully intimate, almost like a cozy math club where everyone gets a turn to shine (or at least ask the really tough questions). We're talking two-way communication, lively discussions, and hopefully, fewer blank stares and more collaborative head-scratching that leads to breakthroughs.

Even better, it's the same gang I had for Differential Equations 1 last year, just a few less of us this time around. It’s always good to see familiar faces, even if we do play a daily game of 'casual hi-and-how's-it-going' in the hallways that usually ends with me subtly asking them about their upcoming exams. 

But seeing them in the lecture hall? That's when the magic happens again. I swear, I chat with them like they're my younger siblings – complete with the occasional gentle (or not-so-gentle) nudge to 'pay attention, this will be on the exam!' and the obligatory 'have you eaten yet?' queries. It’s a connection that goes beyond textbooks and theorems, and it’s genuinely one of the best parts of my week. 😉

And the setup? Perfect! A smaller lecture hall, seats practically on top of me. I can actually see every single face – no hiding in the back row for this lot! Plus, it makes taking attendance on eLearn a breeze. Not only can I spot the truants trying to pull a fast one (you know who you are!), but I also love calling out names. 

I've always had a soft spot for lecture halls like this. It's got that timeless, cinematic feel.

There’s something about a lecturer remembering your name that just makes you feel seen, doesn't it? It's not just about marking you present; it’s about acknowledging you, connecting with you, and building a rapport that hopefully makes you feel comfortable enough to ask anything, no matter how 'silly' you think it is. My personal challenge: memorize everyone’s name by Week 10. 

By the end of this semester, I want them to not just understand mathematical modelling, but to also feel like they've gained a personal cheerleader for their academic (and maybe even life) journey. Wish me luck – and maybe send me some flashcards!😄

Workplace Workouts

Hi,

Guess what I got up to at work recently? Our school's Jawatankuasa Kesihatan dan Keselamatan decided to kick things up a notch with some morning exercise, which we've affectionately dubbed "Senam Seni" – especially for the female staff. And let me tell you, I have a feeling this is going to be our new monthly ritual. It's just enough to work up a good sweat and chase away that dreaded "office syndrome" stiffness. Score!

Sweat, smiles, and feeling 20 years younger with Kak Zah the instructor and the gang! What a blast! 😆

The usual suspects, showcasing the wonderful diversity of our school's Malay, Chinese, and Indian academics!

So, what exactly is "Senam Seni"? It's a dynamic 30-minute exercise routine that beautifully blends fitness moves with the rich complexity of Malaysian ethnic dances. Imagine grooving to rhythms inspired by Malay, Chinese, Indian, Punjabi, and even the vibrant indigenous dances of Sabah and Sarawak, all in one fun session. It's a truly interesting and energetic way to experience Malaysia's diverse culture while getting a great workout!

"Move it like Siti Nurhaliza," they said. We tried, result may vary! 😂

It instantly took me back to my younger days when aerobic dancing was basically my daily devotion. Back then, my biggest worry was probably whether my commitment to my studies was just enough to justify spending the rest of my time on all my passions. Finding time for those passions now? That's a true luxury, isn't it?

So, when this "Senam Seni" idea popped up, I signed up faster than you can say "work-life balance"!😁 This isn't just about getting our bodies moving; it's also a fantastic way to bond. Whether you're an academic juggling complex theories or an admin wizard keeping everything running, our jobs might be totally different, but we can absolutely have a blast (and probably laugh at each other's questionable dance moves) together.

It's a fantastic opportunity to stay healthy and inject some fun into the workday. The only minor detail? On "Senam Seni" days, I definitely need to remember a full change of clothes and book a shower slot. Because, trust me, the amount of sweat generated is nothing short of overwhelming! But hey, a little post-exercise glow (and possibly a slight sheen) is a small price to pay for fun and fitness at work, right? 😉

My Universe in Motion

Hi,

Okay, imagine getting a compliment so breath-taking and appreciative it's like 'the universe in ecstatic motion.' How do you process that? It honestly felt like a little piece of stardust, pure sunshine, just gently landing right there in my inbox. My jaw might have done a little happy drop, and I probably did a quick mental check to ensure I hadn't accidentally worn my blouse inside out today! 😂

Now, while my inner child was absolutely ready to throw a glittery party (because, truly, who wouldn't want to embody a universe?), my very practical self immediately thought, "Me? Are we talking about the same person who just spent twenty minutes looking for her favorite hair tie, only to find it on her wrist?" But then, the beauty of the compliment really began to settle in. And it sparked something wonderfully thoughtful inside me.

I have this overwhelming feeling, this urge to somehow hold onto every single light I see in the vast universe.

What does it even mean to be "the universe in ecstatic motion"? I reckon it's about being vast and full of potential, like the cosmos itself. And the "ecstatic motion" part? That's the joyful, energetic, vibrant flow of life. It's moving forward with passion, even when things are a little messy (like, say, when you spill coffee on your scarf five minutes before a meeting. Yes it happened to me. Many times).

This isn't just about me, though. That compliment felt like a gentle push from the universe, a reminder that we all carry this incredible energy within us. Every single one of us is a universe in our own right, constantly evolving, learning, and putting one foot in front of the other (even if it's just to get to the fridge!😅).

We're all moving, growing, adapting. Sometimes that motion feels absolutely ecstatic – like when a project clicks, or you finally master that tricky recipe, or your kids actually clean their room without being asked (a true universal miracle!). Other times, it's more of a determined shuffle through a heavy downpour. But it's motion nonetheless.

What struck me most was the simple act of being seen in such a beautiful light. It wasn't about perfection; It was about seeing the life and growth within. And that, my friends, is super motivating! It makes me want to glow up even more, to try new things, and to embrace the quirky, messy, wonderfully human "motion" that is my life.

So, next time you're feeling a bit less "ecstatic motion" and more "stuck-in-traffic motion," remember: you're still a universe. You're still moving, creating, and containing plentiful. And perhaps, just perhaps, you're more "ecstatic" than you give yourself credit for. After all, sometimes, the greatest joy is just showing up and doing your thing, even if your inner universe is powered by caffeine and sheer willpower. 😉

Where Little Hands Hold Big Love

Hi,

It's the second Sunday in May – a day when most people around the world stops for a moment to celebrate how amazing moms are. And here I am, enjoying the wonderful craziness of being a mom to my two kids, Auni and Adam. Feeling lucky? That's saying it lightly! These two little bundles of energy have totally changed my life, making me want to be the best mom ever. At least, for them.

Now, let's be real, my sweet kids know I don't like it when things go wrong. But you know how kids are; rules are more like ideas they can choose to ignore in fun ways. 😂 It seems like their main goal is to see how many deep breaths I can take before I get really annoyed. That perfect 'Super Calm Mom' I wish I could be, the one who talks quietly even when things are crazy? Yeah, she hasn't arrived at my house yet.

Actually, I think their day isn't finished unless they've heard me talk a lot – about tiny crumbs on the table or big things like leaving toys around the house. From when the sun comes up until it goes down, my voice is like the normal sound they hear all day. You know, like the quiet noise a fridge makes… but with more clear instructions. 😉

There are times when I get really angry and my voice gets loud. But the really special thing is, even after a day like that, they still come back to me. They'll sit on my lap, their little heads close to me, and talk about their day as if we didn't have any problems earlier. It's in those moments, with the smell of their bath and their quiet secrets, that I really understand. No matter how many times I sighed or raised my voice that day, being with me, sitting on my lap, feeling my love – that's their safe and steady home.

Sunday, May 11th 2025. 

It's supper time, and you can already see Adam's getting sleepy. He's definitely an early-to-bed, early-to-rise kind of kid.

So this year, Adam made a special handmade gift for Mother's Day at school. He brought it home to surprise me with his artwork. He even got his sister to make one for me too! Now I know what they were quietly doing in their room early Sunday morning when I asked for an extra hour of peace. Hehe!

My heart melted at the sight of the two small, handmade paper pouches from Auni and Adam.

Seriously though, my heart is overflowing with love for my little rule-breakers. So, to all fellow moms out there who understand the beautiful chaos and the unwavering love, Happy Mother's Day! May your day be filled with moments that remind you just how incredible you are, even when you're just trying to get through the next five minutes. We're all in this amazing, slightly crazy, and utterly rewarding journey together.

Golden Girl Strikes Again

Hi,

Another sports day rolled around for my girl's school, and wouldn't you know it, she zoomed her way to another gold in the 100m sprint! Looks like someone inherited the "must-win-all-the-things" gene... ahem, wonder where that came from? 😉 She's been on a bit of a golden streak for the past couple of years in this event, which is pretty cool.

2023

2024

2025

This kiddo reminds me so much of my own fiercely competitive younger days. It wasn't enough to just join things; there was this undeniable urge to give it our absolute best shot and, well, maybe snag a little victory while we were at it. School competitions were our personal Olympics! Quizzes, dancing (bless those early attempts!), sports, singing – you name it, we were probably in it, with our game faces firmly ON.

I always try to gently remind her that it's perfectly okay if winning doesn't happen every time. Gotta prepare them for the real world, right? Less "gold medals raining from the sky" and more "participation ribbons with a side of character building." But this one? Stubborn as a mule (and, dare I say, a certain someone else I know very well 😅). 

There was that one time drawing didn't go her way (apparently, not everyone appreciates abstract toddler art like I do), and after a brief moment of dramatic sighing, she was signing up for the coloring contest. Her logic? "If drawing isn't my thing, then I'll just win the coloring!" At that point, I just had to chuckle at the sheer determination – my own stubborn DNA staring right back at me! 😂

So today, we're celebrating her win, not because winning is everything, but because it clearly makes her beam. As her Mom, my job is to cheer her on in whatever adventure she chooses, at any age. Win or lose, my pride is constant. But if that little gold medal puts an extra spring in her step? Well, you bet I'll be over here sending all the good luck vibes her way every single time. ❤️

Celebrating Connections at Work

Hi,

Well hello there, weekend blogging time! Seems like my weekdays have decided to play a never-ending game of 'chase your own tail' lately – always on the go, you know? My brain feels like a juggling act with a dozen things in the air, and sometimes I just stare at my priority list like, 'Yeah, that's cute,' before diving into something purely for fun. Oops! 😄

But hey, speaking of fun, today was a real treat! It's Friday, glorious Friday, and our lunch break decided to stretch its legs a little longer than usual. So, naturally, the awesome gang and I made a beeline for a nearby restaurant. These impromptu lunch dates are our little tradition, especially when there's someone special to celebrate. And today? We were showering Kak Azhana with all our best wishes as she embarks on her Haji! So incredibly happy and excited for her! 🎉

The supportive squad that makes our jobs easier.

Norhashidah, Nuzlinda, Maisarah, Ong Wen Eng, Rosmanjawati, Fam Pei Shan, Yours truly, Azhana, Syakila and Siti Amirah

Joining us was our Deputy Dean, SK Lee, who is such a great help.

Thinking back to when I first bravely stepped into the School of Math back in 2015… talk about feeling like a lone ranger! Being a non-USM alumni and with a bit of a new-appointment desert before and after me, I was pretty much navigating a friendless frontier. Thankfully, the universe (or maybe just office proximity!) brought me to the wonderful Siti Amirah and Maisarah. You know how it is, you naturally gravitate towards those closer in age – instant connection! 😊

But what started as an age-based bond blossomed into something much deeper. These amazing ladies showed me that age is just a number, especially when you carry yourself with confidence. Turns out, even the 'new kid' can thrive! These sisters were absolute lifesavers – always ready with a helping hand or a nugget of wisdom whenever I needed it. Seriously, they're like my unofficial 'School of Math Survival Guide' authors!

Even when I'm thrown into the deep end to lead a project, my first instinct is to seek out these incredible sisters. Without fail, they're there, ready to roll up their sleeves and offer their support. And honestly, my job involves a lot of people wrangling within the school, and I'm so grateful for the cooperation that makes my life significantly less… chaotic. Sure, there are a few who prefer to observe from a distance, but why dwell on the background noise when the foreground is filled with such fantastic people? 😉

Honestly, working with this bunch makes my work life genuinely enjoyable. The constant support and positive vibes are just… chef's kiss. I truly appreciate being part of this amazing circle of positive energy. Here's to more laughter-filled lunches and a fantastic weekend ahead! Bye!

My Sunday in a Nutshell

Hi,

How's your Sunday looking? Mine's been...well, a classic Sunday adventure! We piled into the car for our monthly mall pilgrimage – you know, that thing where you intend to buy something specific, like shoes? Yeah, about that. Sister needed new kicks, Mom was on the hunt, and maybe, just maybe, I'd stumble upon the perfect pair. Spoiler alert: our eyes remained uncaught. Zero shoes were harmed (or purchased) in the making of this mall trip. 😂

But hey, a hungry crew is a happy crew, right? So, lunch was on the agenda, and my awesome sister treated! We landed at Banana Bro – my inner Indian food fan hadn't had its fix since Ramadhan, so let's just say that banana leaf meal was a spiritual experience. 😋 Pure deliciousness!

Of course, no mall trip with the kiddos is complete without a Kaison pit stop. They were on their best behavior (mostly!), so little trinkets were acquired. And then, the mandatory ice cream of the week from Mixue! Brain freeze bliss! Oh, and guess what? Dolly Dim Sum is opening soon at our local mall! It's getting so fancy here, feels like a mini-KL!

Finally, it was Mom-duty time at Jaya Grocer for the weekly fruit and veggie haul. Seriously, their greens are so fresh, they practically sing! And the fruit section? My eyes do this little sparkle thing every time. It's like being a kid in a candy store, but with healthier (and arguably just as tempting) goodies. 😂

Great to report that Auni's specialist visit showed improvement! So, the daily fruit and veggie blending mission continues, now with extra focus on training those colon muscles to get back in the groove. Can you believe it's been six months already? Sending all the good vibes for a complete recovery! ✨

My trusty TM6 is always in action for Auni's daily fruit and veggie blend! Twenty seconds at speed 10 turns it into the perfect, easy-to-absorb smoothie. Winner! 🏆

So yeah, that was our Sunday mall escapade. No major shopping victories, but happy kids, happy tummy, and a happy me. 😊 Simple pleasures, right?

Riding the Ever-Shifting Digital Wave

Hi,

Alright, this post is especially for fellow educators in our esteemed public universities! Let's have a heart-to-heart. We're brilliant minds, masters of our disciplines, and can probably explain the intricacies of quantum physics or the beauty of Shakespearean sonnets in our sleep. But when it comes to navigating some of these online teaching and learning platforms (eLearn@USM to be more specific)... well, let's just say some of us might feel like we're trying to operate a spaceship with a coconut shell and a prayer. 😅

But fear not! This isn't a lecture on the impending robot overlords (though they might be grading essays someday, who knows?). This is a friendly nudge, a gentle encouragement to embrace the digital wave that's reshaping education. Think of it as upgrading your academic toolkit with some seriously cool gadgets. Knowing your way around these online platforms isn't just about ticking a box; it's about unlocking a whole new universe of teaching possibilities and, dare I say, making our lives a tad easier (yes, even grading might become slightly less… soul-crushing!).

So, you know how some people just use the eLearn@USM to, like, drop their files and readings for the students? And that's cool, everyone uses it in their own way! But get this, this platform is actually like a super-helpful teaching sidekick! It can do some really neat stuff that can make our lives easier and learning more engaging for the students. Imagine this: you set an assignment, and instead of spending hours marking each one, it can actually grade it for you automatically! How awesome is that? More time for coffee, right? 😉

Then there are these forum areas where students can chat and share their ideas. It's like a virtual study group, and you get to see what they're thinking! Plus, you can even see if they've checked out the materials you've posted. It's not about playing detective, but it can give you an idea of what they're engaging with. Basically, while just sharing stuff is totally okay, this platform has a whole toolbox of features that can make teaching a little smoother and learning a lot more fun and interactive for our students. It's like having a little helper in the digital classroom! 😊

And speaking of keeping up, it's become rather crucial for yours truly to stay ahead of the curve. Why, you ask? It seems my efforts to stay current, have rather unexpectedly, positioned me as a point of reference for our esteemed USM colleagues here in Penang. The pressure is on, folks! Imagine the horror of being asked a tech question and responding with a blank stare and a confused "Err... is there a button for that?". And those annual interface evolutions certainly add a certain... dynamic to the learning process, wouldn't you agree? It's like they have a secret pact to keep us on our toes (and occasionally scratching our heads). 

The Amirah² have been running some workshops on eLearn@USM lately, and there are definitely more on the way!

So, while the thought of navigating these platforms with grace for my own workshops (and indeed, for my own digital well-being amidst the yearly interface unveilings) presents a modest challenge, I'm certainly eager to embrace this gentle learning incline and navigate these technological currents alongside everyone.

Our students will thank us, our colleagues won't have to rescue me during workshops, and who knows, we might even discover our inner tech guru along the way. Onwards, to a more digitally delightful and interface-change-proof  teaching experience!

The Incredible Women I Shared My PhD With

Hi,

Happy second day of May, everyone! Here I am, bright and early (or maybe just early-ish?), diving deep into some data analysis research at work. And you know what this reminds me of? My amazing officemate from my Wollongong days, the one and only Pearl!

Pearl was a Data Analysis whiz from Prince of Songkhla University in Thailand. We were practically joined at the hip for four whole years in our little PhD office. It still blows my mind how quickly she picked up the Aussie accent. Seriously, she sounded like a local in no time! Meanwhile, I was over here still battling my Malaysian English, even after all that time Down Under. 😂 When I finally asked her secret, she said she barely spoke English back in Thailand, so she was basically starting from scratch when she arrived for her Master's. Her brain just soaked up the Aussie twang like a sponge! Makes total sense – send your kids to a foreign school, and BAM! Instant accent acquisition.

Our office was a glorious haven of estrogen and advanced mathematics – a six-woman powerhouse of PhD students in various fields of numbers. Right next to me sat Diane, the quintessential Aussie superwoman. Her accent was so thick, I swear I needed subtitles sometimes! This incredible human juggled work, family (all the way in Sydney!), and her PhD like a seasoned circus performer. Whenever I felt like procrastinating, I'd just look at Diane and think, "If she can do all that, I have absolutely no excuse!" Instant guilt-fueled motivation!

Then there was Rebecca, a stylish Filipina grandmother rocking her PhD just for kicks! At 60, she was living proof that learning has no age limit (or fashion sense limit, for that matter!). We'd always tease her, "Rebecca, why put yourself through this?!" And she'd just shrug with a glamorous smile and say, "Darling, I was bored!" She'd strut into the office in fabulous dresses, boots, and the most amazing hats, often topped off with a luxurious fur jacket. Meanwhile, the rest of us looked like we raided the discount bin at K-Mart. 😂

My heart still goes out to Bothaina, our Libyan sister. Her PhD journey coincided with the peak of the war in Libya. I remember her tense phone calls home, and we'd all hold our breath, ready with a hug whenever she needed one. She spent her entire time in Australia without being able to go back home. Her strength and resilience were a constant inspiration, pushing me to keep going and finish my own research.

And last but not least, there was Preeya, another lovely soul from Thailand. Quiet and reserved, she might not have said much, but she was always there for our lunch and coffee breaks. She navigated her own research challenges with a quiet determination, and it was wonderful to see her cross that finish line with the rest of us.

(L-R) Rebecca, Pearl, Me, Diane and Bothaina. Our monthly lunch ritual wouldn't be complete without Rebecca's dazzling dress and vibrant red hair lighting up the nearest restaurant. 💃

Pearl's graduation squad! (L to R): Diane, me, Preeya, the graduate Pearl, Bothaina, and a brief but bright encounter with Annie. Didn't get much time with Annie as I zoomed off shortly after she joined the PhD party.

Looking back, those four years in Wollongong were so much more than just studying. The friendships we forged in that little all-girls office were so genuine and supportive. We shared the highs and lows, the triumphs and the frustrations, and those connections made the whole PhD experience truly unforgettable.