My name is Marya Al-Hawbani, and I am from Yemen. I completed my undergraduate studies in Information Technology at Asia Pacific University (APU) in Malaysia — and I can honestly say that it was one of the most beautiful and meaningful chapters of my life.

Studying abroad at a young age is more than just an academic journey; it’s a personal transformation. It was a time filled with experiences, lessons, and self-discovery through learning how to navigate life, handle challenges, and connect with people from different backgrounds.

Malaysia is a truly multicultural country, home to students from all around the world. Each person brings a unique way of thinking and interacting, and through that diversity, you naturally learn how to be flexible, understanding, and respectful. You begin to see yourself through others — discovering new things you love from different cultures, like languages, food, music, and social habits. Living this every day helps you know yourself better and develop a deeper awareness of the world around you.

When it comes to academics, choosing APU was one of the best decisions I’ve made. The university keeps evolving and growing stronger every year, always staying up to date with the latest developments in technology — which is essential for an IT student like me. That gave me confidence that once I step into the job market, I’ll be ready to adapt and keep learning as the tech world continues to advance.

One thing I truly appreciated about APU is its respectful and inclusive environment. Since most of the students here are from international background, you never feel any form of bias or discrimination — instead, you feel part of one community. I remember during my final year, I went through a tough period mentally. One of my lecturers noticed and asked how I was doing. When I opened up to her about my situation, she listened with empathy, offered advice, and even helped me with the subject I was struggling in. She would check on me every time she saw me afterward. That simple act of care meant a lot — because when you’re an international student living alone, even a small gesture of kindness can make a huge difference. I’ll always be grateful to her and wish her peace and happiness.

In short, studying in Malaysia was a deeply enriching experience, one that helped me grow, mature, and see life from new perspectives. It taught me not just about technology, but about people, cultures, and the beauty of connection. I’ll always carry the memories, the lessons, and the people who made my journey truly unforgettable.