Interview with Dr Aslina Saad
By Nada Soc & Regina Blanka Barta
Nada: I read an interesting fact about you: you took your first flight at the age of 27 when you traveled abroad to pursue your PhD. What was that experience like, and how would you compare it to the situation today?
Dr Aslina Saad: That’s a good question! I like to compare my experience with my children’s. My kids took their first flights when they were just seven and eleven months old because I brought them to conferences while I was doing my PhD. For me, it was very different. I didn’t fly until I was 28, in 2007. Back then, everything was new and a bit overwhelming, but I was lucky to travel with a friend and their family, which made it easier.
Now, things have changed a lot. I travel frequently, and technology has made everything simpler—like being able to check in online before your flight. It’s much easier and more convenient compared to how it was nearly 20 years ago.
Blanka: Was there a moment during your international experience that changed your perspective on language or culture?
Dr Aslina Saad: Absolutely. In my country, Malay is our first language and English is the second. English is compulsory in schools, but at home, we mostly speak Malay. When I went to the UK for my PhD, I had to use English all the time, not just with locals but also with friends from all over the world. Being in that environment really forced me to improve my English. I realized that language is about adapting to your surroundings, and communicating with people from different backgrounds helped me a lot.
Nada & Blanka: What advice would you give to students or early career researchers who want to study or work abroad?
Dr Aslina Saad: If you get the opportunity to study or work abroad, take it! Not everyone gets that chance, and it can be life-changing. If you have a scholarship or sponsorship, that’s even better because studying abroad can be expensive, especially if your home currency is weak compared to European currencies. I was fortunate that my government sponsored my studies, but I know that’s not the case for everyone.
Also, remember that studying abroad isn’t just about academics. Get involved in extracurricular activities, explore new places, and enjoy yourself. If you ever get a chance, consider coming to Malaysia! We have lots of activities and beautiful places to visit.
Nada & Blanka: Do Malaysian citizens need a visa to travel to Europe?
Dr Aslina Saad: For studying, yes, you need a visa. But for short visits or conferences, it’s usually not required now. When I did my PhD, I needed all the proper documents. Studying in the UK also gave me the chance to travel to other European countries like Italy, Germany, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Belgium. If I hadn’t gone abroad for my PhD, I wouldn’t have had those experiences. So, whenever you get an opportunity, make the most of it!
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