Over 160 Chemistry Foundation students at Curtin University Malaysia gained career insights during a two-hour motivational session led by Sarawak Shell Berhad engineer Claudius Weson on July 18, 2025. The talk, titled “Designing Your Career: How to Find Purpose Early,” aimed to help students align their academic pursuits with deeper career purpose.
Shell Engineer Motivates Curtin Malaysia Students in Career Development Talk
Key Details
The session took place at Curtin University Malaysia’s School of Pre-U and Continuing Education (SPACE) in Miri, Sarawak. Associate Teaching Fellow Cynthia Paul Sebli organized the event to motivate students early in their academic journey while reinforcing chemistry’s relevance in developing future-ready professionals.
Weson brought extensive oil and gas industry experience to the session, sharing career anecdotes and conducting interactive exercises. He challenged students to discover their purpose, develop resilience, and embrace both technical knowledge and essential soft skills including communication, adaptability, and teamwork.
A mock job interview segment featured five student volunteers—Grace Khoo, Nathan Chua, Ricky Law, Christian Mullock, and Stephen Juna—answering real-world interview questions. The interactive exercise provided practical insights into employer expectations beyond academic grades.
Weson began with a disclaimer clarifying that his presentations do not reflect his current organization’s official positions.
Quotes & Reactions
“Chemistry isn’t just a subject—it’s a stepping stone to shaping your legacy,” said Claudius, encouraging students to align their academic pursuits with a deeper sense of purpose.
Student Grace Khoo responded positively to the session. “This talk reminded me that life is short and purposeful living starts with setting clear goals,” she said.
Nathan Chua emphasized the importance of developing comprehensive skills. “It is not just about getting good grades,” he added. “Soft skills like confidence and communication are what set you apart in the real world.”
“This career talk was a transformative experience for our students,” said organizer Cynthia Paul Sebli. “They walked away not just motivated, but empowered to take charge of their education and future.”
Background & Context
The session concluded with Hii Kiew Ling, Head of the Department of Science and Technology, presenting a token of appreciation to Weson on behalf of Associate Professor Fidella Tiew, Dean of SPACE.
Curtin Malaysia continues delivering impactful learning experiences that extend beyond academic achievement, helping students build strong foundations for personal and professional success. The university maintains active engagement through comprehensive career development programs designed to prepare graduates for industry challenges.
For additional information about similar university career development initiatives, prospective students can explore program offerings and student support services.
