Joy and Laughter for 140 Upper Iowa University Graduates

Mohd Kalel Reza (right) joyously recieving his Cum Laude award from UIU President, Dr Alan Walker (left).

03rd January 2007 Kuala Lumpur – Upper Iowa University, through the Faculty of American Studies at SEGi College of Graduate Studies, conferred degrees to 140 students on December 10, 2006. Upper Iowa University president Dr. Alan Walker and associate professor of biology Lewis Churbuck presented the graduates with their American Degree Program baccalaureate diplomas at SEGi's Subang Jaya campus. SEGi's American Degree Program for the Bachelor of Science degree offers the choice of six specialisations in the popular subject areas such as Management, Psychology, Communication, Financial Management, Management Information Systems, and Marketing. The American Degree Program, offered in partnership with Upper Iowa University , is approved by the Ministry of Higher Education and National Accreditation Board (LAN).

“Upper Iowa University is very proud of each of you,” said Walker. “This day is significant not only to you, but to your families and friends as well. This is the day when the years of hard work and the sacrifices that you and others have made on your behalf, are rewarded.”

Indrani K. Thiruselvam received the highest honours, the summa cum laude, and Charlene Rayna Sebastian received the second highest honours, the magna cum laude. Eleven others received the third highest honours, the cum laude – Chai Fei San, Chua Tze Zieh, Hazliana Che Amat, Melinder Kour Peritem Singh, Mohd Kalel Reza Mohamed Khusahry, Norida Binti Ali, Olive Cheah, Soo Mei See, Soo Mei Yee, Steven Khoo Ghee Chuan, Wan Shazrina Mohamad Zin, and Wong Tze Chung.

When asked about the keys to success, cum laude recipient Mohd. Kalel Reza said it was hard work and persistence that were most important.

“I believe that anyone, regardless of status can strive to achieve any goal if they really have the determination and the strength,” said Kalel. “As the saying goes, an obstacle to success in the path of the weak becomes a stepping stone in the path of the strong. Of course, it definitely helps to be motivated, and encouraged by those around you which thankfully I was lucky to have.”

“I am proud to say that my experience as a student was enhanced by the knowledge and wisdom that I gained through the wonderful lecturers and staff,” said magna cum laude graduate Charlene Rayna Sebastian. “The Faculty of American Degree Studies at SEGi College of Graduate Studies has been a part of my family and from the staff, teachers to the students. I feel that the college is a place for anyone who wants to take the educational journey to success!”