Fathima Asra Thaifoor Najath (right) receiving her prize for third placement. Psychology Day has always been a significant event for me, but this year, it held a special meaning.
While the day was packed with insightful talks and workshops, the standout moment for me was the 3-minute pitch competition held on 6 August 2024 at 3pm in the IMU Bukit Jalil campus’s Mei Ling Young Auditorium.
For over a month, I (a Psychology student at IMU University) immersed myself in preparing for this competition. Countless hours were spent crafting and refining my speech, rehearsing in front of mirrors, and visualising an audience. As someone who isn’t naturally comfortable with public speaking, this preparation was daunting. There were times of self-doubt and anxiety about delivering my pitch flawlessly.
Fortunately, I wasn’t alone. The support of my mentor, Dr Joshua, and my friends was invaluable. Their encouragement and constructive feedback kept me motivated and helped me improve steadily. Their belief in me made a significant difference during this challenging period.
When the competition day arrived, stepping onto the podium was nerve-wracking. However, my hard work paid off. I delivered my pitch smoothly, avoiding any major mistakes, and was thrilled to be placed third—a result that pleasantly surprised me.
Reflecting on the Experience
Participating in this competition was a transformative experience. It taught me the importance of pushing beyond my comfort zone to foster personal growth. Overcoming my fear of public speaking has boosted my confidence, which I know will be beneficial for future academic presentations and professional endeavours.
Additionally, this experience underscored the value of gaining practical experience. Every opportunity to present and articulate my ideas enhances my skills, preparing me for future challenges in my thesis and career.
Most importantly, I learned that dedication and self-belief can lead to remarkable achievements. Placing third was a testament to what can be accomplished with persistence and effort.
Psychology Day 2024 was more than just an event; it was a day of personal triumph and growth. The lessons learned and the confidence gained from this experience will undoubtedly support my ongoing academic journey and future aspirations.
Written by Fathima Asra Thaifoor Najath
