It was a radiant afternoon, the blazing sun casting its golden beams through the window panes, enveloping the room in a warm glow. My heart raced, each second feeling like an eternity as I braced myself for a pivotal moment, the answer that would shape my destiny for the next three years. The anticipation was almost unbearable, a mix of hope and trepidation coursing through me. And then, it happened—a notification that held the power to transform my life.

As my eyes scanned the screen, the words felt surreal, almost too extraordinary to believe: Congratulations! You were awarded the 100% IMU Merit Scholarship for the Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Pharmaceutical Chemistry programme.

In that moment, time seemed to pause. Awe washed over me as the reality of this incredible honour sank in. My mind danced with visions of boundless opportunities and transformative experiences awaiting me at IMU University.

I imagined the doors this scholarship would open, the knowledge I would gain, and the mark I would leave as a proud Pharmaceutical Chemistry Scholar. It was more than an achievement; it was the dawn of a journey that promised to be as challenging as it was rewarding—a journey fuelled by passion, determination, and the unwavering belief that dreams are achievable with hard work and dedication.

From a young age, I have been captivated by the groundbreaking advancements that push the boundaries of human knowledge, particularly those within the realm of medicinal technology. Chemistry, with its blend of theoretical depth and practical impact, has long served as a cornerstone of human health and innovation.

My journey began in high school, where my fascination with the field ignited a deep, enduring passion that steadily grew stronger, guiding me toward a structured academic path in chemistry.

The Covid-19 pandemic became a defining moment for me. Witnessing the urgent need for innovative treatments and vaccines awakened a profound desire within me to delve into drug discovery research. It was a calling—to contribute to solutions that could improve lives and safeguard health.

As I searched for an academic pathway that aligned with this newfound purpose, I discovered IMU University’s Pharmaceutical Chemistry programme. This programme not only aligned with my aspirations but opened the doors to a future where I could meaningfully impact the scientific community.

With IMU’s structured curriculum and cutting-edge resources, I found the perfect environment to nurture my passion for chemistry, drug discovery, and innovation in the pharmaceutical sciences. This journey is more than an academic pursuit; it’s a fulfilling step toward my goal of contributing to life-changing advancements in medicine.

My academic journey at IMU began with the Foundation in Science programme, a crucial stepping stone that, though brief, equipped me with a solid foundation in Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics. The unwavering support and guidance from my lecturers and peers enriched my online learning experience (due to pandemic lockdowns), allowing me to excel with a perfect CGPA of 4.00 and ultimately earn the prestigious 100% IMU Merit Scholarship.

University marks a transformative stage in life, where young adults undergo profound personal and professional growth. As the pandemic began to recede, I entered the Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Pharmaceutical Chemistry programme, greeted by the challenges of hybrid learning. This mode demanded self-discipline and adaptability, qualities I learned to cultivate over time. Although the transition presented challenges, my lecturers’ tremendous patience and willingness to address every student query helped make the process manageable. I was also blessed with a strong support system in my peers. Together, we faced and overcame each obstacle, united by a shared commitment to this journey.

One of the greatest assets of the BSc (Hons) in Pharmaceutical Chemistry programme is its versatile and comprehensive curriculum, which extends beyond core Chemistry. The primary modules cover an extensive range of chemistry topics—organic, polymer, medicinal, heterocyclic, and physical chemistry—establishing a robust scientific foundation. Complementing this core are modules such as mathematics and statistics, general pharmacology, applied microbiology, pharmaceutical biotechnology, pharmacokinetics, and pharmaceutical engineering, all of which bridge theoretical knowledge with practical applications in the pharmaceutical industry. The programme’s immersive practical sessions and research projects have significantly honed my hands-on and analytical skills, preparing me for real-world challenges in pharmaceutical research.

Reflecting on my journey, I am filled with pride and gratitude. My time at IMU has been nothing short of transformative, and I am certain that I have left no stone unturned in making the most of this incredible experience.

Among all the internship opportunities I explored, I was incredibly fortunate to be accepted into a prestigious research team at the National University of Singapore (NUS). Under the esteemed guidance of Professor Giorgia Pastorin, I had the privilege of assisting Dr Chng Wei Heng, a dedicated research fellow, on a groundbreaking project focusing on the isolation of extracellular vesicles for chemotherapeutic drug delivery. Although the internship spanned only four months, the experience was nothing short of transformative.

This opportunity provided me with a profound understanding of both the practical and theoretical aspects of cutting-edge scientific research in pharmaceutical chemistry. Working on a project at the intersection of drug delivery and cancer therapy, I acquired invaluable skills in biological and cell culture techniques, which are crucial in the realm of oncology-focused research.

Beyond technical expertise, this internship was an eye-opening journey into the intricacies of scientific inquiry, from the meticulous formulation of hypotheses to the design and execution of experiments, culminating in the rigorous analysis and interpretation of data.

Being part of a globally renowned institution like NUS immersed me in an intellectually stimulating environment that champions innovation, collaboration, and curiosity. It was an incredible privilege to contribute to a research team that consistently pushes the boundaries of pharmaceutical science. This attachment not only refined my technical skills but also deepened my appreciation for the power of research in advancing medical science and improving lives. It solidified my commitment to pursuing excellence in the field of pharmaceutical chemistry and inspired me to aspire for even greater contributions to the scientific community.

Throughout my university journey, my parents have been my unwavering pillars of strength, steadfastly supporting me with boundless encouragement and a deep, unshakeable belief in my potential. In moments when the weight of exams felt overwhelming, when projects piled up, or when self-doubt crept in, their reassuring words lifted my spirits and infused me with renewed resolve. They celebrated every triumph as if it were their own and stood firmly by my side during setbacks, gently reminding me of the dreams I was chasing and inspiring me to keep pushing forward.

Their unconditional love and endless motivation have been the driving forces behind my achievements, instilling in me not only a profound sense of gratitude but also a fierce determination to make them proud and honour their unwavering faith in me.

As I look back on this incredible journey, from earning the prestigious 100% IMU Merit Scholarship to immersing myself in transformative experiences at IMU University and the National University of Singapore (NUS), I am overwhelmed with gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose. Each step of the way—overcoming challenges, embracing opportunities, and expanding my knowledge—has been a testament to resilience, passion, and the boundless possibilities of hard work.

IMU provided me with the foundation to grow academically and personally, equipping me with the skills and confidence needed to navigate the complex world of pharmaceutical sciences. From mastering theoretical concepts to gaining practical expertise, the programme has instilled in me the tools and mindset to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of medicinal technologies.

My research attachment at NUS further solidified my aspirations, immersing me in cutting-edge innovations and a culture of relentless curiosity. It was there that I witnessed the transformative power of collaboration and research, inspiring me to dream even bigger and aim higher.

Today, I stand at the threshold of a promising future, fuelled by the lessons learned, the friendships formed, and the aspirations ignited throughout this journey. The dream of contributing to the betterment of humanity through pharmaceutical chemistry no longer feels distant—it is a reality within my reach. As I move forward, I carry with me the unwavering belief that science has the power to change lives, and I am determined to be part of that change.

This is not the end of my journey—it is merely the beginning of an exciting chapter where dreams are pursued, and impactful discoveries await.

Article written by Tan Kuan Teng