Having an Athlete Mindset helps you to excel in “Work”

                     

It certainly works for me. Being a Professional Cue Artist in the sports of ‘Billiards’, I have come to had this kind of Mindset with me since I started out at the age of 13. Back then, with such Mindset it has driven me with success in the Local and International scene when I was donning for the National Colours. (A Semi Retired Professional now). I got to tell you that by having such Mindset, it helped me to have a slight advantage against others. Thus, this applies well for me in the ‘Working’ environment.

It is undeniable that, to be truly good in what you’re doing you got to have Passion and Self-Believe/Confidence. These are the 2 main elements to break through the mind that perceives limitations. That holds true for everything. Only certain Individuals are able to get on to an elite level at their sport, there are the ones that have the mindset that I am going to describe throughout this post.

Passion- First and foremost, the most important element is having the Passion for whatever you are doing. It can be described as a certain drive or fire that keeps moving you forward in order to get as good as you can. You enjoy it so much that nothing gets in your way when you put the time and effort into practising. You have to LOVE what you do. Many love it, some tolerate it, some get frustrated with their job, and it brings us to the next question- Does that mean you can’t be passionate about what you’re doing? Not at all!

A personal example is when I first lepak (hang out) at Billiards Centre with my older cousins, I fell in love with this but also hated it as I was not even tall enough to reach the table to hit the balls. Although the dissatisfaction was there, but I still gave me best to do it and in the end I never took account of the height requirement.

It is the same as Working. Many of us dislike what we do as not everyone has their “Dream Job” but we need to see the bigger picture here which is “Making a Living” which explains- being passionate about the job. No! It is all about being passionate about how well I did the job…Yes!

So, paraphrasing a verse Stephen Stills penned,

If you can't be in the job you love…

Love the job you're in (or the way you do it)

Self-Believe/Confidence – After Passion, this is the next element. It plays such an important role in our life on a daily basis of what we are doing. Most of the time we just go on with our day without ever thinking about how confident we feel about ourselves- 

That is, until we are face with a huge decision to make or we need to perform a certain task and expect to do it well.

So creating a mindset with the Self-Believe/Confidence becomes a very important quality that we can apply to most situations before they even occur, thus making those challenging moments so much easier to contend with and to help us feel better in facing them.

There was quite a number of times, when I came to face tougher opponents in tournaments, most people including my team mates would tell me, tough luck for you, you’re in no luck to face that person and other negative thoughts I would hear. As for me, I didn’t allow this to disturb me but just took it as an advice. This is because my confidence level is so high that I wouldn’t want to admit defeat even before the game could start.

As an example, in the game of Football, the Mighty Liverpool is up against the minnows Stoke City. All the football fans, pundits and bookmakers predicted an easy victory- stroll in the park for Liverpool but the end result was Stoke City 6 – 1 Liverpool. –See what I meant? This is no miracle to it as Stoke City totally outplayed their Opposition and made everyone a “Fool” for doubting them.

Back in the “Working” environment, you need to have this kind of Mindset if you wish to succeed in your daily work activities. You may start off by creating a Vision(Dream) board that you can look at it constantly. This is a great way to form positive beliefs and give you a physical “goal getter” to refer to first thing in the morning, last thing in the evening, and anytime in between.

                                   

Surround yourself with positive energy. I’m amazed how many people continue to let destructive influences into their life from others. Join a group of like-minded people that you can relate to and share with and that empower you, or start one by yourself. Stop hanging around with those individuals that suck your energy away and bring you down. Start associating with those that lift you up and energize together towards the same ‘Goals’.

Lastly, accomplish something, no matter how insignificant it seems, that gives you some satisfaction that you are moving in the right direction. Confidence come from results- usually positive results. Don’t just sit around and wait for things to come your way.

Guess that’s all from me for now. Feel free to ask me for a game or two in Billiards. Most welcome!

Robert Cheah,

Assistant Manager Sales & Marketing

Vision College

School Programs with Vision College

Career pathway is a journey whereby a SPM school leaver take to reach their goal throughout their life.  It focuses on the combination of experiences in life, their education and training, unpaid work and interests. There are many different types of programs and courses offered to them once these students complete the most important exam in their life; Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia.  My responsibility is not only to provide them with the updated information but at the  same time educate the importance of obtaining higher education.

Since January 2015, I manage to organize more than 20 seminars and motivational talks in various schools around Malaysia. The main objective is to build a relationship with this schools and thus introduce the programs that are being offered at Vision College. During my talk, I will usually give them an idea about choices they can make for their future career path, job opportunities, and also to motivate the SPM 2015 candidates. 

I usually start off my session with a brief introduction and also an ice breaker to grasp their attention. I will then share experiences of our current students at Vision College and the challenges that they encounter. This is to ensure that they will be aware and is prepared for what is to come. Importance of community involvement is also being emphasized during my talks. I also like the students to think and express their opinions on the topic that is being shared. So, I usually divide them in groups and each group will take turns and present their ideas to the audience. I believe this will improve their communication skills and indirectly help build their soft skills. Rewards and words of encouragement are essential as the students will feel encouraged and this will motivate them to go further. 

I am thankful that till today I always receive positive feed backs from the school programs that I have organized. I enjoy conducting talks and hoping that I will be able to organize more in the near future. At the end of my session, I would normally pray for them to achieve success, be thankful and appreciative, and always be grateful for their parents, teachers, and friends. 

One thing I learn from organizing events is that we need to be able to manage things well as sometimes things do not go according to our plan. It is undeniable that high level of discipline, sacrifices and also commitment is required in order to achieve what is being planned. Thus, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the management of Vision College for their endless support. I am glad that I am part of this team and may we bring our college to the next level. 

Putra Muhamad Firdaus Zahid

Sr. Marketing Executive

Marketing Department

DMU Theme Day

It has been 9 months since I started working in Vision. I would say that I already fit in here. I got to know new people with different backgrounds and personalities. I also gained a lot of experience during ultrasound clinical sessions.

People assume that my work is simple and clean; in and out of the office, and waving an ultrasound probe around in between. We have to deal with problems from students and patients on a daily basis. Crises plague the department on a daily basis and we have to be on our toes to keep the work flow smooth and in check.

Thank goodness that Dr Wati, our in-house radiologist came up with the idea of a theme day. On a set day every month, all the sonographers and the aforementioned doctor will wear a predetermined theme or color to work. That way we can feel that we are united as one. We will also take a group selfie (or a groufie) to document the momentous event for all of eternity.

So how do you chill out? Leave a comment below!

“Denim” day!!

“Purple” day!!

“White” day!!

Save the best for last! “Wak Doyok” day!!!!  

By,

Jywe Fui
Tutor

Postgraduate Diploma of Medical Ultrasonography (Asia)

I Am A Male Nurse – So What?

Is it so unnatural for soccer fanatic, fast car or big bike loving, woman-chasing MAN to be in this profession?

I get asked a lot of questions about why I entered into the nursing profession. I understand all the misconceptions. Yes, I get asked about my sexual orientation, and if I didn’t know any better, I would think that I am a “victim” of sexism. Would anyone in their right mind outwardly ask a woman why she chose to be a ? (Enter any profession that comes to mind here.) 

So why should anyone question a man for wanting to be a nurse?

I am finally ready to let you in on my reasons.

It’s no secret that nursing is dominated by women; as of 2013, only 6% of nurses in Malaysia were male. However, in a female-heavy industry, male nurses are often not given the appreciation they deserve. This may not be the popular opinion, especially when so many women these days go with the, “I don’t need a man” attitude, but this nurse really appreciates having male nurses around. Male nurses provide unique character attributes to the nursing profession.

How? Let me explain.

1. Gender Bias?

Stories of female patients admiring their male nurses are not uncommon. Very modest women, even in their most vulnerable state, have a great appreciation for the care that a male nurse provides. It is a comforting feeling, as a woman, to know a male is caring for you, even if it’s professional, platonic care. In clinical practice, it appears that the open acceptance of male nurses, even by the most modest of women, has been the rule, rather than the exception.

It’s a common assumption that female patients want female nurses. While this may be true for some procedures or treatments, it’s surprising how many females want and appreciate a male nurse. Little old ladies seem to be smitten when a male nurse cares for them. We have all heard countless stories about how old Puan Hamidah would only take her meds for Staff Nurse Farish, the night shift nurse. It is not uncommon to have patients who won’t lift a finger all day, and then miraculously have the ability to assist in turns, or even get up and walk, when a male nurse steps into the picture. The dominating presence of a man is enough to make many patients, male or female, straighten up and act right.

2. Physical Strength

We still call a code “Man-power” when we need support for heavy lifting. It’s a wonder someone hasn’t tried to sue a healthcare organization for this sexist term, but we use it daily, without evening thinking of how chauvinist the words may come across. Why? Men have more muscle mass then women and, naturally, can lift things more easily than women. Simple reality: most men are physically stronger than most women.

3. Friendly Competition

Many female nurses don’t want to be outdone by our male counterparts. Male nurses offer different perspectives and approaches to the practice. They present new ideas about information because their brains are wired differently than females. As nurses, we possess an amount of integrity that forces us to strive to be the best at what we do; it’s one of our most valuable assets. Since our goal is to deliver care to the best of our abilities, any challenge that helps us meet this goal is always welcome. We naturally compete with our male co-workers, as we do with each other. Whether it’s a battle of the sexes, or simple hospital competition, male nurses make us better nurses.

4. Gossip

It may seem stereotypical, but men tend to be less involved in gossip and cattiness. As professionals, we should all avoid this type of behaviour, but we all know it exists, and it’s a daily struggle to overcome gossipy behaviour. Perhaps women don’t pull men into the gossip as often, or men choose to end the game of telephone with them. After all, it’s hard for rumours and gossip to spread if there are no willing participants. This is not to state that male nurses don’t participate, it just appears that they do gossip less often and usually less dramatically than female nurses.

5. Great to Have at the Potluck

One of the benefits of working in nursing is the camaraderie that you develop and share with your co-workers. And since breaking bread with one another helps to facilitate those lasting bonds, it’s no surprise that opportunities that involve food are embraced well and remembered by all. Ask a male nurse to join in on a potluck, and they’ll often have some wonderful specialty item like a signature chicken curry or rendang, or assam pedas laksa you’ve been craving since the Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

6. Male Nurses Enjoy What They Do

If you asked every male nurse if he enjoys being a nurse, chances are 99% of them will tell you: Yes. Nursing is an overall enjoyable profession, with constant opportunities for growth and change. Men and women should never be bored in nursing because there is always the ability to do something different and experience new things. As nurses, we are part of a career that that can start in one place and end in another direction.

Because so many male nurses enjoy what they do, they often are enjoyable to work with. No one wants to work with Negative Staff Nurse Siti, but everyone wants to work with Cool and Collective Staff Nurse Farish. As a minority in the workforce, male nurses tend to pick their battles carefully and thoughtfully. When someone enjoys their work, they encourage you to enjoy yours as well. Nursing needs more individuals with different perspective, backgrounds, and ideas in order to grow and improve.

Why More Men Should Pursue Nursing?

In a time where male unemployment rates are higher than those of women and the healthcare industry continues to expand, nursing is a much more attractive profession for everyone to pursue.

So female nurses, embrace the male nurses in your life. Don’t see them as a threat to our guarded practice. We are not a secret female society; nursing is a growing profession that needs the talent and commitment of men and women in order to promote growth and innovation in healthcare.

Nursing needs passionate individuals who have a desire to improve the lives of others. We need forward thinkers, movers and shakers, and a commitment to caring. We need X and Y chromosomes. We need more nurses, male and female.

Therefore, whenever I get involved with Education Fair or Roadshow, I would definitely promote our Diploma in Nursing programme especially to the male students because I assure you that this career indeed a noble profession besides the salary offered is lucrative.

It took some time for me to decide to become a nurse at my stage in life. The most difficult part was changing my lifestyle so I could go to school full time and completely focus on my studies. Despite having some apprehension, everything fell into place. Now I can say it's all been worth it. I'm in a career where I'm helping people every day and proud to say, "I am a male nurse."

Happy Nurses Day 2015

By,

Freddy Bugang

Administration & Student Affairs Executive

How to manage your finance efficiently?

April, a challenging month for all Malaysian, as the government had implemented GST 6%.

Sidetrack for a bit, as of today, it has been roughly my 10^th month working after my graduation in May 2014. I hesitated when the job was being offered to me, it’s timely when I think about it now, I believe things happened for a good or bad reason under God’s grace. I took this job to challenge myself because I would be doing something totally different from what I had studied.

Entering the career world, you should not expect a high paying salary especially if it is your first job. However, it is the beginning of your adulthood and how you learn to manage it.

As for me, I was given a fair salary for a fresh graduate without prior working experience. Working and taking ownership of many things on my own such as paying my rent, bills, food, petrol & etc on my own is a very fulfilling experience. To earn your hard earn money and spend as you like.

In the first 6 months of working, I went overseas twice; Perth, Australia in June and South Korea in September, not to brag about it, but it involves a lot of money. Praise God, I was given 10% increment after joining the company for six months. I do think the increment is a reason for me to save more, right?

So how to manage your fund with the little you have left? To be honest, I spend all of my income from the 1^st 6 months of working. Bummer right? If you can avoid spending money, please do so. Money doesn’t grow on trees children, plus try not burden your parents too.

In 2015, my resolution is to SAVE MONEY as the 10% increment has encouraged me.

My “honeymoon period” has ended, it’s time to do some serious saving. You know what? I planned to go back to South Korea again in October & to add on, a new phone early next year. So how am I going to save?

Here’s some basic step to save money efficiently:

Rule of thumb: “Never spend more than what you can afford!” Live & breathe with this concept, you’ll have a sustainable future, I guarantee or at least have enough money in your bank account till end of the month.

Step 1: Budget your flow of income

List down all the items you spent on, for example rent, utility bills, eating out, petrol, toll, internet bills, credit card bills & etc. Estimated in the maximum on how much you will use in each category, then minus the amount you earned each month, whether it was a deficit or surplus, you must do some changes to change it into a surplus rather than a 0.

Step 2: Open a separate saving account

“Out of sight so out of mind” theory? Opening a separate account will really help you from overspending. Set aside a realistic amount to save, as I had mentioned before, I’ll be putting aside an amount for a trip and a phone. So that amount will be in a separate account, so I won’t touch it till it reaches maturity (sufficient amount for it, estimate your trip expenses & the item you plan to buy.)

Step 3: Investment or Fixed Deposit (use your money to make more money)

Let your money work for you too! I’ve been living with my pocket money (monthly salary), so where’s my savings since young? I had placed it in investment or rather a unit trust funds. Of course you have to do research on where to invest your money in, seek professional consultant or an experienced investor (for example, my father). I’m making good money annually. Earning few hundred ringgit per month, not bad right? It’s a substantial amount in a year. Never touch this account as the compounding interest will be affected if you do it. I haven’t touched it for at least 5 years now. It could be savings for your marriage fund or house funds in future. ;)

Step 4: Get rid of your credit card or pay full amount monthly

It is an awesome feeling when you received your 1^st plastic. But be cautious of your spending habit, interest rate can go as high as 18% for repayment if you’re paying the minimal amount monthly. I usually pay the bills on my credit card every time I use the card, so that it can tally with the amount of cash I have in hand. I strongly dislike when people owe me money, vice versa. If you can’t succumb the habit of swapping your card every time, I strongly recommend you to terminate your card and use a debit card instead. The reason why I have a credit card is for convenience’s sake like to pump petrol or to use when traveling oversea. My outstanding bill for my credit card is always Rm 0 whenever I get my monthly credit card statement.

Step 5: Discipline and patience.

I must say it takes lot of discipline & patience to see it through, but it will be a fulfilling journey to achieve financial breakthrough. To prevent you from falling into a vicious circle of living from paycheck to paycheck.

There’s about 60 young Malaysians declared bankrupt daily in 2013, I assumed there will be more in 2015.

So, fellow young Malaysians, financial breakthrough isn’t an impossible dream. Let’s do our part to educate and encourage each other to achieve our respective financial goals. Our future determines our children’s future as well. God bless! 

Here’s some photos that were taken in South Korea by me ;) 

Sylvie Leu

Marketing Executive & Optician

Being Vision-ians!

About 8 months ago, thru personal reason I decided to explore a different kind of industry in developing my career - ‘Education’ at a Health Science college. I was super excited that my application when through and I immediately started as a Course Counselor, 3 days after being interviewed.

My task is to advise and recruit Post Graduate & International Students. It is very interesting; thru this position I’ve gained field knowledge and got to know a lot of people at the same time.

Most applicants are from Peninsular Malaysia, India, Myanmar & Bangladesh too. Some of them are doctors (general practitioner) & some are local bachelor degrees holder. Getting to know and being able to assist them on their education plan is the most satisfying part of the job.

I am also exposed to all areas in this field which includes conducting motivational classes, taking on student orientation week, joining college activities & being part of the education fair.

I have wonderful colleagues surrounding me. They have been nothing short of supportive and helpful.

At Vision, the work style is expressed thru an ‘open concept office’, where your managers sit across you, this includes the other departments. We are all situated on the same floor, same area with no dividers – the work culture here allows us to interact with each other closely. This makes anyone easy to approach, and work gets done faster! Of course you never feel alone. It’s like working in a big family :) This keeps us all going, and looking forward for bigger success in future!

“Team Work Makes The Dream Work”

Sincerely,

Dora Harun
Executive – International Office/Admin

The Perks of Being A Lecturer

Since I was a little girl, my mother always tell me to be a teacher. Her theory about being a teacher is the security and ample time you will have compare to other professions. Well these days, being an educator is not as easy as people always said.

I landed in Vision College because of my friend, Fahmi. So, here I am 8 months later. Through this period I have learnt a lot.

First day at work

I still remember my first week of teaching, how the students were staring at me and immediately I doubted myself. That was just scary and believe me, I can't feel my stomach even my voice was shaky. Since this is my first teaching experience, my first semester was a bumpy ride. For example, I forgot which week to hand in the exam papers and SAR.

As for the students, they come from vary backgrounds and need different approaches in learning. Most of the time, I need to simplified my lectures and ask them to repeat the points several times. They don't have vast schemata that can relates to what I am teaching. Explaining and teacher-students interaction are very important. For lazy or uninterested students, my solution is simple. It is either I threat them with low mark or scare them that they will fail the subject and end up repeat and pay for it.  

October Intake Preparatory Class

Here at Vision we have a Happy Team which organized extra curricular activities for the students. Master mind for this team is Daniel and helped by others. I am part of this team and here are some of the activities participated by my friends and me.

Explorace with the Preparatory Class at KLCC

  

Indoor Board Games

Psychology Exhibition

By,

Rabi'atul ,

English Lecturer

My Life at Vision

Hi everybody,

My name is Nurul Izzah binti Izam, you can address me as Izzah. This year, I am about 20-something-years old (ehem!). I come from Banting, Selangor, I am the youngest and the newest lecturer among all the DMI lecturers.

When I entered Vision College on the 1^st July 2014, I believed my personal perspective about learning and education has changed. I left my job as a Research Assistant at Jabatan Pengimejan Diagnostik dan Radioterapi (UKM) and accepted the challenge of being an educator.

Being a lecturer, I expect myself to be good at sharing knowledge, experiences, and also be an inspiration to the students. This semester, I am teaching Physics, IT in Radiography, Radiographic Procedures III and Introduction to Health Service Management. Last semester, I taught Sectional Anatomy subject to DMI Semester 4 students. One of the things that gives me satisfaction about my job is when my students are able to remember the different organ names correctly and try to relate the medical terms in their daily life.

“Another name for six pack is the Rectus Abdominis Muscle.” (feels like as if you are pronouncing one of the magical spells in the Harry Potter movie)

Here, in Vision College, I am not only a lecturer but I am also one of the Happiness Team member. Together with my team, we organised several events. Some of the events that we have organised were, the Orientation Week, Merdeka Day Performance and several indoor/outdoor activities.

Everyone is in serious mode. Paying attention to the performance expert (Mr.Foo) during the rehearsal of

Merdeka Day Perfomance, August 2014.

“Okay guys,I have some idea. How about.........”

(Look how serious they are)

I like their outfit soooooo much.

With my dear colleagues.

Thank you for making the Merdeka Day Performance a great success.

During a visit to Malaysian Nuclear Agency, September 2014.

Can you spot Ms.Elly and Ms.Murni? (You can hardly tell, right? Hehe..)

Now try to find me! :-)

“Careful young man. Those are the REAL radioactive materials.”

“Oh,how to use this hailer by the way? The event is about to start soon..”

(mode: nervous + almost panic)

“Can't help myself from being one of the young and bold students.”

This picture was taken during the Breast Cancer Awareness Run 2014.

As months passed by, there is one fact that I keep in my mind, that is my students come from a variety of culture, family and education background. How grateful I am, when my colleagues, especially the DMI family, help me a lot in my journey as a junior lecturer.

Xiexie nimen, thank you!

Warm regards,

Nurul Izzah binti Izam

DMI Lecturer

Back to Vision!!

18 months ago, I have decided to resign from Vision due to some personal matters. But, I have never expected that I would join Vision again on July, 2014.

I know that many people are wondering why did I make such decision. My second job after Vision is International Islamic School (IIS). It is a bit complicated to describe those feelings into words, but hope that you will understand after you have finished reading this entry.

First and foremost, teaching is my passion. Of course, I still can teach in IIS but I prefer to teach Medical Imaging courses. This is the main reason I joined Vision College once again. I am really in love with medical imaging that I have spent 4 years studying. One of the greatest benefits in this profession is the variety and scope for progression. Apart from performing plain examinations like chest X-rays, radiographers have the opportunity to become expert in areas like Computed Tomomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Ultrasound, Angiography, Fluoroscopy, Trauma Radiography, Mobile Radiography, Operating Theatre Radiography, and PET & SPECT imaging (nuclear imaging).

The second reason is probably because of the values practised in Vision itself. I love the working environment and how there is a sense of belonging in the company. Vision was my first job and I have two of my ex-classmates who are also teaching here. We were called and came for the interview together while we were still in our final year in International Islamic University Malaysia at that time. So, all of these memories actually have influenced me to continue to be part of Vision College.

DMI first outdoor activity, April 2013

DMI Family

Farewell Dinner with FIS student, May 2013

In a nutshell, I just believe that wherever and whatever your job is, you just need to be sincere and always be positive. Put your trust in God and success will be yours....

Thank you for reading till the end...

By,

Farah,

DMI Lecturer