Curtin Malaysia bootcamp equips new business students for academic success

Miri, Sarawak – 12 March 2026 – Transitioning into university life can be both exciting and overwhelming. To help new students start their journey with confidence, the Faculty of Business at Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) recently organised an Academic Excellence Bootcamp, a dynamic half-day programme designed to equip first-semester students with the knowledge, skills, and support needed to thrive in their studies.

The bootcamp brought together academic leaders, professional staff and senior students in an engaging programme aimed at helping participants better understand university expectations, discover available support services, and connect with the wider Faculty of Business community.

Opening the event, Faculty of Business Dean Professor Pauline Ho welcomed the students and highlighted the faculty’s commitment to supporting their academic and professional development from the very beginning of their university journey.

“The Academic Excellence Bootcamp reflects our dedication to preparing students not only to succeed academically but also to grow into capable and adaptable business professionals,” she said. “Through initiatives like this, we aim to equip our students with the knowledge, skills and values needed to navigate both university life and the evolving business landscape.”

The students were introduced to their academic leaders during a Meet-and-Greet session with Heads of Department and Discipline Leads, giving them the opportunity to learn more about their programmes, academic pathways and areas of specialisation.

The programme also featured a session titled ‘Learning at the Faculty of Business’, delivered by Associate Dean for Learning and Teaching Dr. Fayrene Chieng, which provided practical strategies for effective university-level learning and highlighted key academic expectations.

The students further strengthened their research capabilities through an Information Literacy workshop conducted by the university library team, where they learned how to identify credible academic sources and make effective use of library resources.

One of the most engaging segments of the bootcamp was the ‘Do’s and Don’ts Sharing by Seniors’ session. Senior students shared first-hand experiences, practical study tips, and common challenges faced during the first year, while leaders of academic clubs introduced opportunities for students to get involved in student organisations and professional development activities.

The bootcamp concluded with a feedback survey, with many participants expressing appreciation for the programme’s practical insights and welcoming atmosphere.

One student shared, “I missed the orientation due to Chinese New Year preparations, and this bootcamp really provided all the necessary information I needed for my first-year degree.”

According to the faculty, the bootcamp was intentionally held in the third week of the semester to reinforce key information and ensure that students who were unable to attend the earlier orientation programme could still benefit from essential academic guidance.

By fostering collaboration between staff and students, the Academic Excellence Bootcamp reflects Curtin Malaysia’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the student experience and supporting first-year students as they begin their academic journey.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit curtin.edu.my or follow Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn or TikTok.

Professor Ho (front row, 7th left), academics and senior students in a group photo with new students