Hello, world! My name is Yusuf, and I’m thrilled to introduce myself as an intern at ASCA TECH LAB. Join me as I take you on a journey through the milestones and challenges of my life, my passion for engineering, and my aspirations for the future.
A Humble Beginning
I was born on October 25th, 1998, into a world full of possibilities. However, life had its own plans. Just a year and three months later, my biological father lost his battle with brain cancer, leaving my family devastated. This early loss instilled in me a profound sense of determination to make the most of my life.
A Journey through Education
In 2004, I began my education journey at SKBTHO(2), a nationality school, and attended Al-Waani, a religious school, in the afternoons. That same year, my mother married my stepfather, bringing a new chapter to our lives. Education became my refuge, and I thrived academically. In 2009, I achieved a significant milestone by receiving a medal from Kumon for excelling in Mathematics, surpassing my age level by two levels.
At the age of 13, I enrolled in SMKBTHO(2) for high school. These years were challenging, marked by personal difficulties as my parents went through a divorce. Despite the darkness that surrounded me, I remained focused on my studies and my dream of becoming an engineer.
A Passion for Engineering
My passion for engineering began to flourish when I entered the University Technology of Malaysia (UTM), pursuing a Diploma in Electrical Engineering (Mechatronics). I embraced the university experience wholeheartedly, participating in various events and joining the Robotics Club, where I eventually became the Vice-President. But that was just the beginning of my journey in the engineering world.
I had the privilege of working extensively with Drabot, a robotic company, wearing multiple hats from a part-timer and facilitator to mentor and intern. This hands-on experience taught me the intricacies of the field and fueled my passion further. In 2020, I made the bold decision to continue my studies at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), carrying with me a wealth of knowledge and experiences.
Current Endeavours
Today, my life revolves around projects. My journey led me to volunteer for PneumaGlide and sparked the idea for VelorCuff. Both projects are deeply personal to me, driven by a desire to align my work with my mother’s dream of me becoming a doctor. To achieve this, I’m venturing into biomedical engineering. My primary goal is to make her proud, and my objectives are to create prototypes that fulfil the needs of those with medical challenges.
Challenges and Reflection
The path ahead is fraught with challenges, from budget constraints and prototype failures to unexpected errors and the need for adapting to changes. However, I embrace these challenges as opportunities for growth. Poor quality and sustainability are also concerns that I’m determined to address. Technical complexity is another hurdle, but I’m ready to tackle it head-on.
A Bright Future in Engineering
As I reflect on my journey so far, I see a bright future in the engineering industry. My time at ASCA TECH LAB has ignited a passion for innovation and exploration that knows no bounds. Whether it’s biomedical engineering or electrical engineering, I am excited to continue learning, creating, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
A Commitment to Society
Using my engineering skills, I aspire to give back to society. I want to create solutions that improve lives, share knowledge, and inspire others to innovate for the greater good. It’s not just about personal success; it’s about making a meaningful impact on the world.
My Thoughts on Japan
Japan has always held a special place in my heart, thanks in part to anime. Anime was a source of solace during some of my darkest days, offering escape and imaginative stories. Through anime, I learned about Japan’s language, culture, stunning scenery, and delectable cuisine. Above all, I’m impressed by the politeness and ethical conduct of the Japanese people. I dream of visiting Japan one day to immerse myself in its rich culture and experiences.
A Message to My Future Self
To my future self, remember that success is a journey, not a destination. It’s the challenges and obstacles that give meaning to our achievements. Keep pushing forward, stay adaptable, and never stop learning. Your mom’s pride and your commitment to innovation will lead you to a future full of possibilities. 頑張れ! (Ganbare!) Keep going!
Thank you for joining me on this journey of self-discovery and engineering aspirations. Stay tuned for more updates as I continue to explore the fascinating world of engineering and innovation.