Entrepreneurship sharing session by ICS alumnus

UTAR Institute of Chinese Studies (ICS) and the Chinese Studies Society (CSS) jointly organised a sharing session titled Excel in Every Field: Choose What You Love (行行出状元之选你所爱) on 20 November 2024 at UTAR Kampar Campus.

ICS alumnus Ang Soon Keat was specially invited to share his insights about the diverse career opportunities available after graduating from the Chinese Studies programme. The session was moderated by ICS Deputy Dean for Student Development and Industrial Training Dr Ling Liong Ngo.

Ang began his talk by expressing gratitude to ICS for the invitation and the opportunity to share his experiences with juniors. He then delved into the reasons behind his decision to major in Chinese Studies, emphasising the courage it took to make that choice and the determination to persevere simply because of his passion for it. “Most importantly, do not forget the original aspiration that led us to choose Chinese Studies in the first place,” he advised.

He shared, “After graduation, I ventured into eight different jobs, including working as an independent school teacher, a performer, an entrepreneur, a public speaking coach, and many more. I found joy in every role I took on. Throughout the journey, embracing challenges and daring to explore have made life all the more meaningful.”

With 17 years of hosting experience, he shared many memorable moments and precious memories from his journey and some of his most impactful hosting experiences. He remarked, “Most of the time, I am not just a host; I often need to adapt to different roles based on the situation and respond flexibly to unexpected events.” He encouraged juniors interested in pursuing a career in hosting to be bold and give it a try. He also shared tips on how to get started and hone their hosting skills.

He then shared insights into his career as a teacher at an independent Chinese secondary school. “My ambition was to become a teacher during my childhood time, and I believe teaching is often the first career aspiration for many Chinese Studies students. After graduating in 2014, I joined Hua Lian Independent High School as a teacher, and it was a deeply rewarding chapter of my life. In my view, the greatest reward of being a teacher lies in earning the respect and admiration of your students,” he explained.

He also shared his entrepreneurial story of establishing his own tuition centre and his experiences as a public speaking instructor. He spoke in detail about the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, providing the juniors with a more concrete understanding of starting a business and inspiring them to courageously pursue their own dreams.

Echoing with the sharing session’s theme Excel in Every Field, he said, “I hope that in your studies or future careers, you will choose what you love, and love what you choose. Enjoy the present university life with happiness, and have faith in the future. I hope my ten years of experience can offer some insights.”

“You can try any industry. If you like it, pursue it. There is no right or wrong, no win or lose,” he concluded.

During the Q&A session, the academics and juniors had great interaction with Ang. The event concluded with a group photo, symbolising the joyful gathering of ICS alumni with academics and students.