The Murdoch Vice Chancellor's Commendation Award - The Pinnacle of My Academic Success

Written by: Benette Lee One One

Murdoch Bachelor of Mass Communications student

I am overwhelmed and honoured to be a recipient of the Murdoch University’s Vice Chancellor’s Commendation for Academic Excellence Award. However, I must confess that prior to being an awardee, I was not aware about it. All my achievements (both academic and non-academic) were accomplished for my personal satisfaction. My parents have always spoken to me about how my own successes should reflect my happiness, not anyone else’s. The Vice Chancellor’s award is definitely the pinnacle of my academic success as this is my final semester with the programme. What a way to wrap up my Bachelor’s Degree with a bang!




I have always had a passion for writing and I wanted to pursue Journalism. As KDU College is renowned for their Mass Communications courses, I expedited the process to be enrolled as a student. I want the best, and I knew KDU College could provide that for me. I have been a student in this institution since January 2006 for the Diploma programme and naturally, I furthered my studies here under Murdoch University.


The reason I placed such a great deal of trust in KDU College is due to the fact that the students are given opportunities to learn and grow. Knowledge is not only based on books but at KDU, Mass Commers are driven to be involved in the dynamics of events and activities. In 2007, I took on the role of Head Event Coordinator in a full blown, professional Public Relations event (as part of an assessment) where I led my team of classmates in an animal rights campaign called ROAR. Starting from scratch, I had a lot of planning to do and the experience was nerve-wrecking, but my team mates and I all assumed it like a real job and worked hard which resulted in the campaign being a major success. KDU’s teaching faculty (for Murdoch University at least) also maintains a rigid grading system in which standards are kept at a high level and lecturers are constantly monitored. KDU College is no doubt a prestigious college and can only bestow you the best.


Speaking from experience, pursuing Mass Communications has been nothing but a thrill ride for me. I have enjoyed my college and university life and I chose to take every advantage I had with it (knowledge wise). I also believe in pursuing a career that I can be truly passionate about. My parents share the same vision as I do, which is, not to push oneself into something if they are not content about it. I would like to see myself in a job in which I will be able to achieve self actualisation where I work not because of monetary benefits but because I am simply happy to pursue it. I’m proud to say that this course truly did me well - I recently received a job offer from a reputable international company and I have so many reasons to thank KDU College and Murdoch University for it.

I derive my inspiration to be who I am today, from two female role models. The first is Abigail Adams, who is the wife of the second President of the United States of America. Abigail was known for her intellectual letters she submitted to her husband while he was away for the Continental Congresses. The husband and wife exchanged scholarly discussions on government and politics through land mails. I am an enthusiast of writing and publications, and I believe that Abigail was a woman beyond her time where she sought to use the opportunity to extend the conventional use of pen and paper to be more significant.

The second is the late Yasmin Ahmad. I always believe it is good to have a role model in the field of industry I am pursuing. Yasmin was always in the spotlight where she created films that was deemed controversial but that did not impede her from succeeding. Her brilliant, award-winning advertisements for PETRONAS are well-celebrated as well. She is one person who dared to take the road less travelled, and I strive to be as composed and successful as she is.

Success is something that comes naturally to those who are far too occupied to look for it. By pursuing what you enjoy and to be contented will drive you to make your dreams happen. Do not follow your dreams but chase them. I hope my little story will inspire you . At KDU College, a little inspiration does go a long way.