Studying for her Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (AI) at Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU), gave Coey Low the opportunity to become an AI expert. Ms. Coey, who previously tutored foundation-level programming modules, benefitted from the unwavering support of her mentor. Combined with the exposure and opportunities provided by APU, she went on to win the Best Presenter Award for her paper, ‘BoomMapper’, at the International Conference on Learning Technology for Education Challenges (LTEC) 2025, marking her successful transition into a recognised AI professional.

What began as a leap of faith for Coey Low, a former programming for foundation tutor at Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU), became an unexpected journey of incredible growth.

Enrolling in a part-time Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (AI) at APU not only transformed her career but also saw her take on a new role as a tutor, sharing her expertise with the next generation of students. 

“Studying the Master’s programme at APU has completely changed my life and career progress,” Coey added, “It was the best decision I ever made.” 

Coey’s journey started at the 11th International Conference on Learning Technology for Education Challenges (LTEC) 2023 in Bangkok, Thailand.

There, alongside her supervisor, Associate Professor Ts Dr Vinothini Kasinathan, she immersed herself in conversations with leading academics, an experience that encouraged her to take on her own research project. 

This hard work culminated in her paper, ‘BoomMapper: An Innovative Web-Based System for Transforming PowerPoint Presentations into MindMaps’, which perfectly blended her programming background with her new-found passion for AI.

Nervous yet resolute, Coey took to the stage at the 13th edition of LTEC 2025, held at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, recently.

Together with LTEC 2025, UMS also hosted the 19th International Conference on Knowledge Management in Organisations (KMO 2025), chaired by Professor Lorna Uden, Emeritus Professor of IT Systems at the School of Computing, Engineering and Technology, Staffordshire University.

Both conferences were hosted by Dr Makdi Masnoddin and Associate Professor Dr Fauziah Sulaiman from UMS. 

She faced a daunting audience of professors and academics from across the globe, but with her supervisor, Dr Vinothini, providing unwavering support, Coey confidently navigated the questions. 

All of her dedication paid off in the most remarkable way. Coey was awarded the Best Presenter Award, an achievement she had never dared to dream of.

The words of her mentor, Dr Vino, “Do your best and tell your story” had become her anchor throughout the entire experience. 

Seeing her name and paper published in a prestigious Springer book left her speechless and profoundly grateful.

Beyond the academic accolades, Coey’s journey was enriched by a supportive network of mentors and friends. 

She credits Dr Vino as an “Incredible and inspiring woman” who shaped her path and thanks her friends Samantha Tee Ker Xin and Neekita Sewnundun for their unwavering encouragement.

Both Samantha and Neekita are currently pursuing their Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) Artificial Intelligence and Master of Science in Computing at APU. 

Coey is now channelling her expertise as a Senior Software Engineer at Wess, crafting innovative digital solutions that are transforming the beauty and wellness industry. 

Her work includes building government compliance features and implementing new AI enhancements for the platform. 

Coey’s story is a powerful testament to the opportunities that await at APU. She hopes her experience will inspire others to take a leap of faith, submit their work, and chase their goals with the same determination and passion that guided her. 

For anyone considering a Master of Science in AI, she wholeheartedly recommends APU for its supportive environment and the chance to find mentors who can change a life.