Former student shares journey, lessons with SMK Tarat pupils

SERIAN: A former student of SMK Tarat has returned to his alma mater to inspire the next generation, reminding students that their background should never limit their dreams and aspirations.

Dr Clarence Jerry, an educator and former lecturer, delivered the message during a motivational talk titled ‘Your Beginning Does Not Determine Your Destination’, encouraging students to believe in themselves, remain disciplined and persevere in achieving their goals.

Having once sat in the same classrooms, he said returning to the school was a meaningful experience, as he reflected on his own journey from student to educator and PhD graduate.

“Many years ago, I was also a student here. I sat in classrooms like yours. I had teachers who taught and guided me. I had dreams, but I also had uncertainties about what the future would bring,” he added.

He shared that his journey had been shaped by learning opportunities, guidance from teachers, encouragement from others, and determination to keep moving forward.

“What I had was simply an opportunity to learn, teachers who guided me, people who believed in me and the determination to keep moving forward,” he said.

Clarence reminded students that success should not be measured solely through examination results, university admission or financial achievements, but also through personal development, good character and contributions to society.

He also encouraged them to develop consistent study habits through five simple practices: attending classes, listening attentively, understanding lessons, practising and revising regularly.

“Academic excellence is usually not created in one night. It is built through small, consistent efforts every day,” he said.

On discipline, he stressed that students should remain committed to their responsibilities even when motivation was lacking.

“Motivation gets you started. Discipline keeps you going,” he added.

He further urged students not to view failure as a final judgement of their abilities, but rather as an opportunity to learn, reflect and improve.

He also encouraged them to dream big and consider various career paths, including medicine, engineering, education, science, entrepreneurship, law, research and community leadership.

However, he emphasised that aspirations must be supported by concrete action and personal commitment.

“Dream big. Start small. Start now.”

Towards the end of the session, he challenged students to reflect on their personal goals by completing four statements: “This year, I will…”, “I will stop…”, “I will start…” and “I will not give up on…”

He also reminded them to remain humble, trust in God, care for others, and use their future achievements to contribute to their communities.

Expressing hope that the students would one day return to their alma mater to inspire others, Clarence concluded with a reminder that their present circumstances did not define their future.

“Dream big. Work hard. Stay humble. Never give up.”