Creative: Lizfiana Samerra (second from left) is the first in her family to pursue tertiary education.
JOHOR BARU: Being the first person in her family and one of the few from Kampung Orang Asli Sungai Temun to pursue a tertiary education, Lizfiana Samerra anak Tony is already off to a good start after having made it into the Dean’s List in her first semester.
The 19-year-old, who is pursuing a Diploma in Art and Design (Fashion Design), said she did not expect to achieve such good results.
“As I had 10 subjects in my first semester, I was worried that I could not catch up.
“Some topics were tough, such as History of Art and Culture and Civilisation, so I had to put in extra effort.
“As such, it is quite often I will stay back after class to complete my assignments.
“I also formed study groups for revision as I did not want to let my family or village down.
“In my family, I am the only child among my siblings to get into college,” she said.
Fondly known as Erra, she has set her dream on becoming a fashion designer and wanted to pursue her tertiary studies since she was young.
“I am also motivated and inspired by my favourite fashion designer, Iris Van Herpen from the Netherlands, for her forward-thinking, innovative and unique designs,” she said.
After completing her SPM, Lizfiana Samerra was offered the course at Widad College in Kuantan, a higher education institution, in collaboration with Universiti Teknologi Mara.
Her college experience has been enjoyable so far, with her favourite subject being fashion figure drawing which allows her to explore her creativity.
“In one of our classes, the lecturer taught us to draw using our feet, which was a fun and educational experience.
“Being in college also helped me learn how to manage my time and about teamwork.
“It’s better to work in teams,” said Lizfiana Samerra, who just started her second semester.
Being away from home on her own also means that Lizfiana Samerra has to carefully manage her finances for meals, essential items, transportation and materials for her assignments.
“I try my best to be independent because I do not want to burden and worry my parents, who fish for a living.
“They were quite excited and proud when I informed them that I was put on the Dean’s List after getting my first semester results in March.
“My parents are my biggest supporters as they constantly encourage me to pursue my dreams.
“I hope to make them and also everyone my village proud by maintaining my grades and graduating from the course with flying colours,” Lizfiana Samerra added.
