My Friendship at UCSI

On my first day at UCSI University as a foundation student, my heart thumped uncontrollably as I stepped into the class. Being oblivious to the environment made my anxiety rise through the roof. I was new and unfamiliar with this foreign place. At that very moment, I felt a tap on my shoulder and a comforting voice resonated through the air. It was my friends! They gathered around me and greeted me warmly, which instantly pacified my uneasiness. 

I first met my friend’s group on the orientation day for the January 2022 intake. To my surprise, everyone was affable and outgoing, in contrast to my introverted self. They approached me and introduced themselves with a bright smile that was visible even through the mask. I was glad to meet a bunch of people that I could hang out with. We started to share details about each other’s backgrounds, such as where we had studied previously, what courses we were taking, and our hobbies. Everyone had their phones out and started to exchange numbers and follow each other on social media. 

As we continued to attend classes together, we got to know each other a little better. I recorded each of their birthdays on my calendar as I was quite forgetful and wanted to celebrate their special day with them. My birthday was on the 5th of April, which was during our final week of the semester. On the last day of our finals, we decided to hang out at one of our friends’ condos to conclude our tough week. Two of my friends said that they were going to collect a parcel and went down while the rest of us continued chatting. As soon as they entered, they were holding a cake and collectively sang the loudest, most mellifluous Happy Birthday song I’ve ever heard. Laughter and shrieks reverberated around the room as they saw the shocked expression on my face. I was touched by the surprise they prepared for me, as I completely didn’t expect it. With a large smile plastered on my face, we nibbled on our slices of cake and discussed our favorite dramas. We realized that we all enjoyed Korean dramas such as “Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo”, “W: Two Worlds” and many more.

Our first trip to Melaka commenced during our semester break. We planned to have a two-day, one-night trip and searched for famous restaurants, beaches to visit, and shops to do some window shopping at. As soon as we reached Melaka, our first destination was a restaurant that claimed to sell its meals as low as RM1. Despite the prices being low, the serving portion of the food was decent and delectable. At the following stop, we headed to a clothing shop that is no stranger to most of us, “H&M”. Time seemed to melt away as we walked around the famous Jonker Street and tourist spots of Melaka. To replenish our energy, we had the staple foods of Melaka, Cendol, and Nyonya laksa. The sweet and refreshing dessert greatly complimented the sour and spicy bowl of noodles, satisfying our palates. We then checked in to our hotel and prepared for the beach. Reaching the beach just in time for the sunset, we rushed to enjoy the view and take pictures while walking barefoot on the sand. Our day soon came to an end as we gathered together and talked about our day. All of us were exhausted yet content with such a memorable day filled with laughter, delicacies, scenery, and companionship.

Having this group of friends has truly elevated my university life. It made me realize that having someone you can share your feelings and experiences with is such a blessing. My friends have certainly made me feel loved as they unconditionally provide support, care, and sincerity. Surely, disputes are inevitable among humans, even among my friends. But as we learn to communicate and listen to each other, we choose to resolve the problems and forgive. This is what creates a stronger bond between me and my friends. I truly appreciate them for always sticking with me and giving me guidance. Continuing the journey of my university life, I hope to always have them by my side.