Nisha LeAnn Chelvan

Profile

What was your most memorable moment here at HWUM?

There were so many, but I think one of the most memorable and meaningful parts of my time here at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia was being part of HWUMSA, which is the student association. I’ve been a part of HWUMSA since the later parts of my first year, and it quickly became a huge part of my university life. I started off in the Orientation Committee and soon got into bigger roles in the executive team first as the Treasurer and most recently Vice President of Wellbeing. Being in HWUMSA for over two years gave me the chance to grow personally and professionally alongside like-minded people. It was through HWUMSA that I got the opportunity to organize events like Watt A Run. But more than the events, it was the friendships I built along the way and the memories I made with them that makes this experience unforgettable. HWUMSA shaped so much of who I am today, and I’ll always look back at that experience as one of the highlights of my university journey.

Why did you study Psychology?

Psychology was always something that fascinated me and it offers a unique perspective on how we think, feel, and interact with the world. It let’s us explore all the things we usually gloss over in life and never think twice about. And as I grew up, I knew I wanted to be in a field where I could help people grow and thrive, and part of that journey requires understanding the people I’m working with. So studying Psychology actually gave me the tools to do that.

How has the University or your experience here aided your development?

Heriot-Watt has given me so much more than just academic knowledge; it has shaped who I am today. My involvement in HWUMSA, gave me the chance to take on real leadership roles and make an impact on the student community. Balancing academics, event planning, and personal responsibilities wasn’t always easy, but it taught me valuable lessons in time management, resilience, and adaptability. I’ve grown so much in confidence and self-awareness, and I’ve learned how to lead with purpose. This experience has helped me discover not only the kind of leader I want to be, but also the kind of person I strive to become.