Let me share a candid revelation: Prior to penning this article, I had little to no inkling why acquaintances pursuing postgraduate studies found themselves stressed out about completing and publishing their thesis or dissertation. I had naively considered postgraduate studies as a mere continuation of bachelor’s degrees. However, as I prepared to pursue my own master’s degree, the revelation hit me – publishing is a big deal!
I recently had a chat with Dr Vincent Ng Kim Sheng, the Dean of the Graduate School of Business (GSB) at SEGi University, and he painted a vivid picture of what’s ahead and why publication is the golden ticket to success in postgraduate studies.
Building a Scholarly Identity
Postgraduate students aren’t just hitting the books; they’re paving the way for groundbreaking knowledge. Their work has the potential to save lives, reshape our understanding of the world, and elevate our quality of life. Postgraduate publications give these students the chance to establish themselves as scholarly authorities in their chosen fields. It’s like their professional coming-out party, showcasing their expertise and unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of knowledge in their respective domains.
Quick note: Editors and reviewers aren’t just looking for any old research; they want the good stuff – original, innovative, and game-changing. Your conclusions better be solid backed by robust data. In my book, publishing papers is a game-changer for doctoral students and budding researchers. It might just be the only way to showcase your creativity and capabilities to potential employers and peers, unless they knew you before you hit the big leagues.
Contribution to the Academic Discourse
The academic world thrives on the exchange of ideas and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. Postgraduate publications are the lifeblood of this conversation. They bring fresh perspectives, innovative methods, and trailblazing findings to the table. It’s like they’re expanding the library and sparking discussions among peers and experts.
Networking and Collaboration
Publishing isn’t a solo gig; it’s all about teamwork. Think of mentors, professors, and fellow researchers as your academic squad. When you collaborate with them on publications, you’re not just expanding your network; you’re building valuable relationships within the academic community. This can lead to mentorship, guidance, and future research adventures. Plus, networking through publications can open doors to conferences, seminars, and academic extravaganzas, adding depth to your academic journey.
Resume Enhancement
In today’s cutthroat academic job market, a strong publication record is your secret weapon. Postgraduate publications shout out loud that you can hold your own in research, whip up scholarly articles, and bring something extra to the academic table. They’re like a shining badge on your resume, making you the star candidate for future employers and PhD programmes.
Skills Development and Intellectual Growth
Writing a paper isn’t just about the final product; it’s about the journey. It involves diving into countless articles by other authors, maybe even dropping them an email or giving them a call. The result? You’re honing your academic and research communication skills, and you’re building a network with some of the brightest minds around the globe. Penning a detailed research paper isn’t just a task; it’s like a crash course in analytical and networking skills that are in high demand globally.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy
Postgraduate publications are your legacy. They add to humanity’s collective brainpower and can even influence future research, policies, and practices in your field. Knowing your work has made an impact? That’s like a pat on the back from the universe.
Postgraduate publications are more than just academic trophies; they’re a testament to your dedication, passion, and scholarly prowess. They elevate academic fields, turbocharge your career, and fuel your personal growth. As you venture into the exciting world of research, don’t just embrace the opportunity to publish – shout your discoveries from the rooftops. Your contributions? They’re a piece of the puzzle that’s shaping academia and beyond.
About the Authors:
NUR SELINA BINTI MUHAMMAD AZLAN LIM @ SELINA MESSNER
English Writer, Group Marketing & Globalisation, SEGi University & Colleges
Over the last 15 years, Selina has enjoyed a dynamic career that reflects her deep passion for the written word. Currently pursuing a Master of Arts in English Literature at Universiti Malaya, Selina is known for her versatility as a writer, excelling in crafting engaging and informative content for mainstream and digital media. Her career portfolio includes diverse projects, such as documentaries, lifestyle programmes, and magazine-style television shows in Malaysia, South Korea, Indonesia, India, and Japan. Selina has held editorial roles at prominent magazine publications focusing on building, sustainable energy, and green initiatives, such as ‘Building & Investment,’ ‘Sustainable Energy Malaysia’ (SEM by SEDA Malaysia), and ‘Greenplus Asia.’ Now, as a valued member of SEGi, Selina plays an integral role in the newsroom team within the Group Marketing & Globalisation department.
DR VINCENT NG KIM SHENG
Dean, Graduate School of Business, SEGi University
Dr Vincent Ng earned his Doctor of Business Administration from the University of Hertfordshire, UK, and holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) and a Bachelor of Law (LLB) from Universiti Malaya. Throughout his illustrious career, Dr Ng has accumulated extensive experience in the realms of leadership, management, fostering university collaborations, establishing industry linkages, and offering invaluable consultancy services. His exceptional professional journey has seen him make significant contributions during his tenure at renowned institutions, including UTAR and Malaysia Innovation Hub. Dr Ng’s dedication and expertise have left an indelible mark on the fields of academia and business.