Konnichiwa everyone! 🥰 This time, let's dive into my UEM interview experience.
Application Stage:
UEM's application process was slightly different from others I applied to. They required my Form 4 Examination Result, recent curriculum positions or activities, and two essays: "Why Do you Deserve This Scholarship?" and "Why Do You Choose Your Intended Study Field and What is your study plan?" Each essay had a maximum limit of 300 words. Additionally, I had to scan a passport photo.
Some additional info : UEM, under Khazanah, sends students to local and foreign universities like Southampton in Johor and Nottingham, with opportunities for student exchange programs.
After applying, it took 2 to 3 weeks for feedback. Despite thinking I hadn't passed the first stage, I received an email just 4 days before my interview, which coincided with Petronas'. After requesting a date change and confirming via email, I successfully rescheduled for the day after my Petronas interview.
---UEM First Stage Interview on April 23, 2019
The interview was at Mercu UEM, near KL Sentral. Starting at 8:30 a.m., I arrived an hour early 😂, finding only 6 candidates with me listed first! After a 45-minute wait in the lobby, I went upstairs feeling like I was heading into a job interview, alongside Khazanah candidates for their next stage.
1. Test:
The test consisted of English and Mathematics (focused on additional and further mathematics), with only 30 minutes to complete. English tested grammar, demanding quick and accurate responses. The math section covered trigonometry, sin-cos-tan graphs, vectors, and quadratics. Revision is essential if you aim for this scholarship!
2. The Interview:
I was first in line, facing 3 Malay UEM panels. Questions varied based on preceding answers:
- Background
- Other scholarships applied for and chosen courses
- Family's educational background
- Volunteer experiences and lessons learned
- Musical instruments played
- Interests and hobbies
- Why electrical engineering?
- Recent news read
- Name ministers/parliamentarians related to engineering
- Applications of electrical engineering
- Post-graduation plans
It was a challenging interview, but I made it to the second stage! Don't underestimate yourself—even if you think you've failed, keep striving to be your best!
I hope sharing this benefits future candidates. Good luck! 🎉
Till then, xoxo 💖