Being a book bug is indeed a student’s choice, but the proverb “all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy” reminds students that apart from their mundane study routine, there is also time to take part in other activities of interest. For Beh Chong Sing and Wong Huei Wern, being a student athlete not only involves academics and sports, but also clubs on campus to keep a balance between work and life.
Beh Chong Sing, a student pursuing the Master’s in Business Administration programme at INTI International University, was only 12 years old when he discovered his passion for discus throw. Not wanting to see his interest go to waste, he signed up for the 2022 Institutions of Higher Learning Games (SUKIPT) in May.
“I can’t throw away the effort I have put into this sport. It’s an outlet for me to express my passion and self-worth, and I’m grateful to INTI for giving me this opportunity. There was not much else to think about,” Chong said.
Chong, who is an executive at one of the largest Fintech companies, recounted his journey to the final round of discus throw at SUKIPT 2022.
“I used to spend hours practicing on my own, but it was a lot easier to train before the pandemic. It’s different when you have to do it for a big event like SUKIPT as a lot of adjustments were made. I had to train extra hours due to various restrictions, but I truly appreciate the commitment and support shown by faculty members and lecturers at INTI,” he said.
Chong gushed about how proud he was to be able to represent INTI and he would never forget the incredible feeling he got seeing people from INTI come and watch until the end. He said it was truly an emotional moment to make it to the final round.
Having to juggle work, studies, and sports, Chong has to ensure that he manages his time wisely.
“INTI has taught me how to set aside time for sports, school, and work. I would not have been able to survive such a heavy load without the immense support from my lecturers. They have helped me become an all-rounder,” he said.
Beh Chong Sing, a student pursuing the Master’s in Business Administration programme at INTI International University, was only 12 years old when he discovered his passion for discus throw.
If managing time for one sport is hard, imagine how hard it is for Wong Huei Wern to fit in two sports into her schedule. Huei Wern, a student pursuing the Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Physiotherapy programme at INTI International University, challenged herself to compete in both the javelin throw and women’s 5000 meter sprint at SUKIPT 2022.
When asked how it feels to be a female in a male-dominated sport, javelin throw, she said anything is possible when you are passionate about what you do.
“Being in the race, you really have to push yourself to the edge. The intensity and adrenaline rush I had when competing really pushed me to go far and taught me a lot about my capabilities,” Huei Wern said with a smile.
Reminiscing about her journey before the competition, she said there were times when she felt overwhelmed, but she soldiered on anyways.
“Time management is important because my schedule is jam-packed with classes and training for two different sports. I have to focus in class and practice hard after class. On weekends is when I can rest,” she said.
She added that without a support system, success is impossible and she is glad to have the support of many.
(Second from left) Wong Huei Wern, a student pursuing the Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Physiotherapy programme at INTI International University, posing for a group photo at the 2022 Institutions of Higher Learning Games (SUKIPT).
Reminiscing about her journey before the competition, she said there were times when she felt overwhelmed, but she soldiered on anyways.
“Time management is important because my schedule is jam-packed with classes and training for two different sports. I have to focus in class and practice hard after class. On weekends is when I can rest,” she said.
She added that without a support system, success is impossible and she is glad to have the support of many.
“I’m thankful for my family, close friends, and lecturers at INTI. They made every effort to accommodate me while they could. I often get assistance from classmates and lecturers for my assignments and projects, maybe that is the reason why I am never really overstress despite my hectic schedule,” she said.
The third semester student also pointed out other perks while studying at INTI International University.
“If it weren’t for my membership in the Physiotherapy Club at INTI, I could probably hyperfocus on training. Being a part of the club gives me access to advice from physiotherapy lecturers on how I can avoid injury. These are just some of the perks of being a student here. I also learned to be more disciplined,” added Huei Wern.
Meanwhile, Associate Professor Dr. Chan Kait Loon, who is Head of the Student Services Department at INTI International University, said the university provides student athletes with extra support and personal consultation and lectures for them to do well academically and in sports.
“When we talk about athletics, we can relate it to many things. It teaches us about teamwork, strategy, and decision-making which affects the well-being of the student. We want to nurture INTI students to have these winning qualities for their future,” concluded Dr. Chan.