Curtin has transformed my life, both professionally, academically and socially

I am Professor Dr Wilson Chuan Hui Tay. I have just completed my terms as the Dean and Professor of Management at two private University in Malaysia. I studied full-time, part-time and worked as an academic and administrator with WAIT which later became Curtin University of Technology for over a period of more than 15 years. Curtin University has transformed my life, both professionally, academically and socially.

I was a Malaysian student from 1970 to 72 when I completed my Associateship in Accounting at the Bentley Campus. I was an active Accounting and Business student, Guild councilor and President of the Malaysian Students Union in the 70’s. In 1975, I graduated with my Bachelor of Business in Accounting and Bachelor of Business in Company Secretarial Practice where I later practiced and qualified as Fellows of the CA ANZ, CPA Australia and ICSA professional bodies. In 1985, I completed my Master of Business at Curtin and in 2000 my Doctorate in Management with IMCA SCU. The early academics at WAIT/Curtin who inspired me and gave me tutoring work to pay for my college fees were Mr Cole Sears (Head of School), Mr Bob Vincent (Law Lecturer), Mr Ray Winfield (Systems Lecturer), Mr Sylvester Boudville (Economic Lecturer) and many other early academic pioneers. I was also fortunate to be given part-time work with Mr Fred Carlise, Head Gardener at the University during vacation, and planted all the gum trees lining up Hayman Road more than 40 years ago. They are now my majestic trees standing tall today.

My time at WAIT was the foundation and transformation responsible for of what I have achieved and where I am today. Congratulations for celebrating 50 Years and thank you WAIT/CURTIN.