He wasn’t just another face in the graduating class. Juggling academics with the presidency of the Student Representative Council (SRC) and a whirlwind of club activities, Sean Eddry embodied the spirit of a true go-getter. This Ipoh-born lad, raised in the bustling streets of Kota Damansara, had etched his name into SEGi University’s hall of fame.
Armed with a freshly minted Bachelor’s in IT and the coveted title of valedictorian, he left a trail of inspiration for those who follow. His focus transcended the pursuit of accolades. This was about a journey of passion, perseverance, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence, a journey perhaps preordained by a family legacy.
You see, academic excellence runs in Sean’s blood. With a mother who conquered the world of finance and a father who found his calling in the ever-evolving realm of IT, achieving valedictorian status seemed to be a family tradition. “My parents always said if they could turn back time, they’d relive their university years,” Sean shares, a hint of pride in his voice. It was their passion for learning, coupled with the booming IT landscape, that inspired him to follow in his father’s footsteps.
And relive it, he did.
“Becoming valedictorian wasn’t the initial goal,” Sean confesses. It was the byproduct of a commitment to pushing boundaries. He was driven by a desire to etch a legacy in SEGi’s halls, to prove that dedication paves the path to success, and to savor every moment of this transformative chapter, just as his parents had.
This journey wasn’t without its hurdles. Balancing responsibilities felt like a tightrope walk at times. “Leading the SRC, organising events, staying active in clubs, and keeping up with academics was overwhelming,” Sean recalls. But he mastered the art of prioritisation, meticulously listing tasks and tackling them with focus and passion. This discipline became his compass, guiding him through the chaos.
Doubt crept in, especially during the final year. The weight of leadership and the daunting final year project left him questioning his capacity. Yet, he persevered, drawing strength from his support network and breaking down challenges into manageable steps. “My family, friends, and lecturers were my pillars,” Sean shares, acknowledging their unwavering belief in him.
Adaptability was his shield, allowing him to navigate the unexpected twists and turns of university life. Focus was his sword, enabling him to cut through distractions and conquer his goals. He approached each week with a plan, yet remained flexible, embracing the unexpected. Active participation in class and discussions solidified his understanding, while a healthy balance of study and self-care kept burnout at bay.
But university was more than just books and grades. It was a crash course in life itself. “Resilience was a key takeaway,” Sean reflects. “Challenges are inevitable, but with determination and support, they can be overcome.” Teamwork became his second nature, recognising that collaboration often breeds the best results.
“For students aiming high,” Sean advises, “embrace curiosity and challenges. Ask questions, surround yourself with inspiring people, and never fear failure. It’s a stepping stone, not a roadblock.”
Sean’s journey has shaped his future aspirations. He envisions a career in project management, armed with the leadership skills and adaptability honed during his university years. “My experience has taught me empathetic leadership, adaptability, and the pursuit of innovation,” he says.
Sean’s story is a beacon of hope, a testament to the power of hard work and perseverance. He hopes to inspire others to dream big, work tirelessly, and leave a positive mark on the world. Asked to sum up his university experience, Sean doesn’t hesitate: “It was a transformative journey. Full of challenges that pushed me, experiences that shaped me, and moments I’ll never forget.”
And what a journey it has been.