Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Statistics
Senior Analyst Programmer, Te Whatu Ora | Health New Zealand
Caleb is striving for success with his UC Science degree and career within the public sector.
It was the outdoors which drew the Malaysian national to the Canterbury region for university studies.
"Going on road trips, climbing mountains, and finding new spots to enjoy the sunset were considered luxurious activities back home. Now, it is just around the corner," he says.
It was not all fun and games for the Bachelor of Science student during study. Alongside his outdoor pursuits he was dedicated and hard-working in the classroom.
"UC is known for its Engineering, which shows the high standard it holds in the Mathematics field."
Caleb was a frequent member of the UC RecCentre and enjoyed playing social sport through their free student programme.
For Caleb, the friendly faces around campus were a constant bonus.
"The nature in New Zealand was the attraction, so is the lovely, genuine people.
"UC has a diversity of students, majoring in different subjects, so there are many personalities. I really enjoy interacting with people different from me."
The courses available at UC allowed Caleb to learn in a constructive environment and extend his critical thinking.
"I had no experience in coding before taking STAT221, and it really encouraged me to explore, think and learn in a different way," he says.
The driven Mathematics and Statistics major found time to excel both in his studies and socially. Caleb was the President of the UC Young Club in his final year.
"Young UC was a whole new experience, doing things in a new culture and helping people to feel the sense of belonging I needed."
Societies and clubs are a vital and thriving aspect at UC. Clubs like Canterbury Malaysian Student’s Association (CMSA), ease the transition for International students like Caleb.
"Being part of the large CMSA club gave me so much warmth, to be around with people of familiar tongue and culture. It is often a relief to hang out with them once in a while. Malam Malaysia, one of the largest events of CMSA, always brings people closer to each other."
Choosing to do a degree at UC has given Caleb a taste of the real world.
"I found myself a more capable and mature person. More importantly, I am able to face my weaknesses more boldly now, which I would hardly have the chance to, if it was not for studying abroad.
"I was blessed enough to receive academic rewards from UCIC and UC, as a recognition of high achievements."
Since graduating, Caleb has launched his career with New Zealand’s official data collection agency Stats NZ.
Going forward, Caleb wishes to further his studies and pursue a career in the data and analytics field.
