My last test was two weeks ago.

With that, I thought my semester break had officially begun. But not quite. We still had to wrap up final assessment for a few subjects. Here is a thing. All my semester 1 papers have no final exam. Just final test and final assessment. Hence, the semester still on going at the time our group managed to submit the paperwork and the necessary assessment. Finally, I can call 20th July as the true beginning of my semester break.

Our first classroom session kicked off with an ice-breaking session between students and the lecturers. The question commonly asked was: Why did you choose to pursue your degree? The answer varied; some were aiming for career progression, some set their personal goals to have a degree, and some were fresh off their diplomas and joining weekend class while holding down jobs.

As for me, my kids all grown up, and I think I am ready to continue my education two decades after my diploma. That question was meant to remind us that we made the choice to pursue our study while working, so we all should be aware of the sacrifices (time and money spent) we will make throughout all the coming years until we graduate.

Personally, I believe I can manage this lifestyle. After all, I believe in lifelong learning. One should never stop just because they age. With age, comes wisdom. I could be the best for myself or be the one to lead those in need. Or I could do both. There is nothing wrong on being kind.

The classes were great. I have no problem understanding the lesson. If I do, I will just take note and do some research on weekdays. The problems are not that hard. Either you start from understanding the terms (literally) or work backwards from the result to conception of the idea to understand what, why and how it happens. There are no mandatory textbook, only few references textbook that recommended by the lecturer. And those textbooks are in subscription mode, which is consider affordable. Pay RM50.00 to access the textbook for a year. The rest of the learning materials shared to us in Whatsapp group or uploaded to student online portal. However, I do buy some books from Shopee as extra reference.

The challenge would be on group assignment. Since we were all working on weekdays, and live in different places, coordinating tasks may be a bit difficult. We usually pool resources and drafts ideas on a share Google Drive, set access, and do all the planning and feedback there. Practical, but again, we were all busy with work and family, so there would be some issue here and there. But as an adult, it can be settled without fuss. We just need to dedicate at least 10 minutes on the task and keep doing it. This part requires a lot of patience. No one knows anyone struggle, so the best we can all do is to be supportive all the way.

Personally, I enjoy this student life. It helps me cope with whatever void I feel with my career. As a student, we are on equal footing. No office politics, no egos, just students enjoying the journey in learning and grow together.