Valedictorian Ashley Tan Jia-Yeu Celebrates Class of 2025, Urges Peers to Embrace Life's 'Process of Becoming'
GEORGE TOWN, PENANG – October 11, 2025 – DISTED College held its Convocation of 2025 celebrating the graduating class with an inspiring speech by Valedictorian Ashley Tan Jia-Yeu, a graduate of the Bachelor of Psychology (Hons) programme. In her speech, she shared her journey to obtaining her degree, and how she had to undergo various hardships on her road to success.
Her speech acknowledges the shared struggles and dedication of the graduating cohort, painting a vivid picture of the students’ path to their degrees.
She mentions that the road to her graduation was far from easy, having spent countless hours in classrooms, labs, the library and on last minute group chats, with everything been completed at 3am.
Although, she mentions that “it wasn’t all struggles” and that she and her friends had her fair share of laughter with inside jokes that only they would understand; celebrations after deadlines with random conversations that made their days brighter.
She mentions that it’s the little moments, no matter big or small that make up the fabric of the journey with the memories serving as a reminder on not just what they’ve studied but also on what they became along the way.
She thanks the people who have supported both her and her friends along the way, thanking her lecturers from the School of Psychology – Ms. Syinie, Ms. Indra, Ms. Shakirin as well as any lecturers that they have had the opportunity to encounter, for believing in them, even when they didn’t fully believe in themselves.
On a personal note, she also expresses a heartfelt gratitude towards her parents, Mr and Mrs Tan who have given her the utmost support during her degree, thanking them for their patience for when she was stressed, for their understanding when she stumbled, and for their constant belief in her even when she doubted herself.
She wraps up her speech by stating that life is not a race, and that its not linear either, stating that there will be ups and downs and that ultimately what matters is that everyone enjoys the process of becoming.
She encouraged her peers to take a moment to appreciate their achievements and to slow down as they embark on the next chapter. To her fellow psychology graduates, she added a lighthearted reminder to “CALM DOWN!” as their academic stress was now officially over.
Tan concluded by urging the graduates to prioritize a broader definition of success, one that extends beyond personal career milestones: “Let’s remember that success is not only about building our own careers, but also about giving back – to our communities, to society, and even to future students… May we carry forward the lessons we’ve learned here, not just for ourselves, but to make a difference in the lives of others.”
Robin Soh Kwok Hur: Trusting the Process
We were profoundly inspired by the heartfelt words of Robin, the Chairman’s Award recipient for the Degree programme (Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Marketing Management), at this year’s Convocation Ceremony. He speech echoed the shared experiences, challenges, and hopes of an extraordinary group of graduates who have journeyed through unprecedented times together.
Robin began by extending his deep gratitude to God, his family, lecturers, and fellow classmates, highlighting that success is always a collective effort. He fondly remembered his parents’ love, especially his mother’s guidance, paved the way for him from a young age. He also shared a touching nod to his elder brother, who was not only family but also a classmate, making this graduation ceremony even more special.
Recalling the initial uncertainty of 2021 lockdowns and restrictions has affected his decision in choosing the university. Robin praised DISTED College’s serene environment as a haven for learning, a place where learning felt possible even when the world was turned upside down. He shared cherished memories—from small, intimate classes to moments of laughter playing table tennis—that defined their time together.
Beyond nostalgia, his message carried a powerful message of resilience and growth. He urged his fellow graduates to trust the process, reminding graduates that their degree represents far more than just a certificate; It is about building character, developing valuable skills, and cultivating the mental strength to overcome setbacks. He quoted Sally Hogshead: “Different is better than better.” He encouraged his peers to embrace their individual paths, and strive for excellence in their own way. Robin reminded us all that when life gets tough, and when we find ourselves in the valleys of doubt or struggle, it is our persistence that will ultimately make us shine, not just as silver or bronze, but as gold.
Robin also shared a timeless wisdom from the Chinese proverb, 活到老，学到老, which literally means “Live until old, learn until old”. In closing, he drew inspiration from the Bible, quoting Colossians 3:23: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”
To the Class of 2025: Robins’ speech reminds us that the true value of your achievement lies not just in today’s celebration but in the perseverance, growth, and spirit you carry forward. Congratulations to each of you, you’ve faced uncertainty with courage, and your journey is just beginning. May your future be filled with hope, joy, and endless opportunities to learn and grow.
