Pursuing a MSc in Molecular Medicine at IMU marked a significant milestone in my professional journey as a community pharmacist. This programme provided an in-depth exploration of the scientific principles underlying disease and therapeutic interventions, extending well beyond the foundational knowledge acquired during my pharmacy degree.
In the first year of the programme, I maintained a full-time position in a community pharmacy, where my responsibilities included managing daily operations and providing patient-centered care. Balancing the long working hours of my pharmacy job with the demanding deadlines of the MSc programme was undoubtedly challenging. There were times when the pressure of managing patient care, pharmacy operations, and meeting academic deadlines seemed overwhelming.
Yet, this struggle taught me valuable lessons in time management, resilience, and perseverance. The experience of juggling these responsibilities not only honed my ability to work efficiently under pressure but also reinforced my commitment to my professional and academic goals. As my research on pancreatic cancer cells commenced in the second year, I transitioned to part-time work to dedicate more time and focus to my research efforts.
The MSc programme at IMU is designed to equip graduates with advanced skills in cellular and molecular biology, genetics, and drug development. Its curriculum balances coursework with research, employing problem-based learning to foster analytical thinking.
Flexibility of the Programme
The programme’s flexibility, particularly with online classes, was crucial in allowing me to balance work and study effectively, especially during the first year when I was working full-time as a community pharmacist. This flexibility allowed me to remain fully engaged in my studies without compromising my professional duties.
Comprehensive Understanding of Laboratory Techniques and Research Methodologies
Additionally, as a pharmacist, my initial exposure to laboratory work was limited, as most of my experience was centered around patient care and pharmacy operations. However, this MSc programme significantly bridged that gap, providing me with a comprehensive understanding of laboratory techniques and research methodologies. The hands-on research experience allowed me to develop skills that were previously outside the scope of my professional training, deepening my understanding of molecular mechanisms and enhancing my ability to contribute to scientific research.
Looking ahead, this MSc has positioned me to take on more complex challenges in both community and research environments. The skills and knowledge I’ve gained will serve as a strong foundation for my continued growth in the healthcare field, enabling me to make a greater impact on patient care and scientific advancement.
Written by Sun YiJo
