MUET Essay Sample: Studying Abroad

MUET: Writing Paper

Ace Ahead: MUET; Oxford Fajar

Practice 2 pg. 242

Malaysia’s educational field has undergone vast changes in various aspects towards achieving Vision 2020. The increase in number of educational institutions has provided better education for the nation. Despite of these dramatic changes, a large group of local students opt to study abroad. This scenario is influenced by several factors which deal with the quality and the learning atmosphere compared between local and foreign educational institutions and also personal preferences.

First and foremost, some students believe that foreign educational institutions provide better education, moreover when it comes to established higher learning institutions such as Oxford University and Royal College of Surgeons. This bunch of students is looking for highly qualified lecturers residing in well-known universities which can provide them with the best lectures. Some say that they will be able to secure better job if they were to graduate from foreign universities. In addition, better educational facilities are available in top foreign universities which will boost students’ skills according to their courses.

Furthermore, pursuing studies in foreign countries is believed to expose students to a greater learning atmosphere. This includes higher competitions among the students themselves. Such healthy competitions are necessary to drive students towards their goal of achieving ultimate success in their studies. In addition, studying in a foreign country will also enable students to widen their expanse of networking to form a greater community/a higher level. This is very useful when it comes to doing researches in which colleagues can be such a great help.

Apart from that, one’s choice of studying abroad may also be influenced by personal preferences. Studying overseas enables an individual to be more independent in managing daily life as family members are nowhere nearby. This value is very essential later upon marriage; the setting up of a new family. On the other hand, some students use this opportunity to travel and widen their view of the world they are living in. They can explore new places with different cultures and traditions.

To conclude, there are substantial solid reasons for students choosing to pursue their studies abroad. Such move will never be wrong because it is beneficial to both the students and the nation. Local experts graduated from top foreign universities will be able to contribute to the nation, serving as precious human resources which will drive Malaysia to a new era of modernisation.

Conversing in English

To speak in English, there are a few aspects that you should take great care of such as the suitability of the words that are used and most importantly, the grammar.


It is very important to use the correct words (vocabulary) when speaking. This is to ensure that the person you are talking to is able to understand what you are trying to say.


Of course, being in the rank of “beginner” will make you feel awkward in our early attempt to speak in English. Such situation is commonly faced by people in this group.


When can you speak in English and with whom?


During lecture classes:
ANYWHERE AND ANYTIME that you feel suitable
These include:


-those sitting nearby during a lecture class;


-with the lecturer; to ask question;


-when speaking to the non-Malays;
*also with the Malays, there’s nothing wrong with it


-with the tourists you meet while having an outing


-those with good English communication skills


-the receptionist at the hotel/fast food restaurant counters


Start with simple sentences like:


-Good morning!


-How are you today?


-May I have Set A, please?


-I would like to buy a ticket to Melaka.


-How much is this dress?


-Are there smaller sizes for this dress?




Speaking these simple sentences is good enough for a beginner. You should NEVER be shy when trying to speak in English.You should be proud of yourself for having the courage to speak the language because there are people out there who are worse than you.
(*Thumbs up!)


Later on, try to speak a more complex and longer sentences like:


-Please come over my room tonight. We can discuss deeper about the topic we learnt this morning.


-Sorry but I have to go now. I have a lecture to attend at 9 am.


-Let’s go out to Mid Valley this weekend. I heard that there will be many shops offering discounts on expensive dresses.


-I can’t do much to help you but I promise that I will try.


-The weather is very hot today. Please remind me to bring along an umbrella when we are about to go to the lecture hall.


As the conclusion, practise makes perfect. You will feel weak at the beginning but as you keep on practising your English, you will be building the skills and also confidence in you. Soon enough, you will realize how much you have improved.


Good luck!


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