Embarking on a journey of education in a foreign land presents numerous challenges, and for Chinese students in Malaysia, these hurdles span language barriers, adjustments to diverse education systems, and considerations for future career paths. In this exploration, we delve into the experiences of two interviewees, Xie Yuxin, a Mass Communication student, and Yan Zixuan, pursuing a degree in Mass Communication, to uncover the nuances of their academic journeys.
Language as a Barrier:
Language, as an integral aspect of daily life, manifests as a significant challenge for Chinese students studying in Malaysia. The nuances of listening, speaking, reading, and writing create hurdles in classrooms, hindering effective communication with teachers and peers. Xie Yuxin candidly shares her struggles, expressing difficulty in articulating thoughts promptly and comprehending lectures. She emphasizes, "I often couldn't express what I wanted to say in a timely and perfect manner." Language barriers extend to daily life, impacting basic interactions, such as shopping and ordering food, especially for Malay language.
To overcome these language barriers, Xie Yuxin adopts a proactive approach. Embracing a positive mindset, she dedicates her free time to improving her English proficiency, delving into both language and professional knowledge. The emphasis is on increased communication with classmates and actively seeking help when faced with language-related challenges.
Adapting to Different Education Systems:
The transition from the Chinese education system to the Western model in Malaysia poses unique challenges. The Chinese system, characterized by a structured approach and emphasis on theoretical learning, contrasts with Malaysia's focus on practical abilities and group cooperation. Yan Zixuan notes the free and less structured nature of Malaysian universities, a departure from the step-by-step educational approach in China.
In the midst of a cultural transition, Chinese students often grapple with challenges when adjusting to the flexible nature of the Malaysian education system. The departure from the structured and rigid regimen of the Chinese educational environment, as pointed out by Yan Zixuan, may evoke a sense of unease, especially in terms of handling studies and collaborative group assignments. Yan Zixuan notes the contrast, saying, "I think Chinese universities tend to educate students step by step, and they attach great importance to learning theory. In most cases, Malaysian universities do not pay attention to theoretical learning and rarely manage students' learning and life. It's relatively free." The increased emphasis on practical skills and group collaboration in Malaysia necessitates adaptation for students who are more accustomed to a theoretical learning approach.
Career Considerations and Future Plans:
Navigating academic challenges is a stepping stone to future career decisions for Chinese students in Malaysia. The pursuit of master's and doctoral studies is a common trajectory for graduates, often seen as a gateway to increase employability. Xie Yuxin and Yan Zixuan express the importance of choosing a major aligned with personal interests and future career aspirations.
The interviewees highlight the role of parental advice in guiding major choices, emphasizing the need for a balance between passion and career prospects. Despite the challenges, both express a commitment to further studies, with an inclination to pursue master's and doctoral degrees in other countries. The aspiration is not only academic but also a desire to gain a broader understanding of global cultures and landscapes. For example, Xie Yuxin states “My aspiration is to explore the diverse cultures, humanities, and customs across various regions worldwide throughout my lifetime.”
In conclusion, the academic and career journeys of Chinese students in Malaysia reflect a tapestry of challenges, resilience, and aspirations. Beyond academic pursuits, these narratives reflect a global outlook, illustrating the transformative power of education in fostering adaptable, globally-minded individuals.
Full Interview with Zixuan and Yuxin, Video Interview by: Ma Yu
Yuxin Xue is a content creator under the Newswav Creator programme, where you get to express yourself, be a citizen journalist, and at the same time monetize your content & reach millions of users on Newswav. Log in to creator.newswav.com and become a Newswav Creator now!
The User Content (as defined on Newswav Terms of Use) above including the views expressed and media (pictures, videos, citations etc) were submitted & posted by the author. Newswav is solely an aggregation platform that hosts the User Content. If you have any questions about the content, copyright or other issues of the work, please contact Newswav.
