My journey to becoming a dietetics graduate has taken some interesting turns, different from the typical path. It all began in 2014 when I joined IMU’s Foundation in Science programme as part of the pioneer cohort. I was not entirely sure which degree I wanted at that time, but I knew I was drawn to healthcare.
When considering my pre-university options, I discovered IMU was launching its Foundation in Science, backed by its reputation as an established health sciences university. Its location was convenient for me, and I liked that it offered group work and teamwork-focused learning, which added to its appeal.
After completing the foundation programme, I became interested in dietetics. However, my family had reservations about this choice, so I switched my focus to dentistry. Since I did not meet the CGPA requirements for dentistry at IMU, I explored other universities but faced another obstacle—no intake spots were available.
Eventually, I decided to pursue dentistry in India after hearing about an agency that helped place students overseas. Yet, a few years into my degree, I realized dentistry was not my true calling. In 2019, I made the difficult choice to leave the programme and return to Malaysia. Though my family was initially uncertain, they came to support my decision, and I finally began my dietetics journey at IMU in September 2020.
My IMU Experience and Favourite Memories
My four-year degree journey at IMU began amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Classes shifted online, and it was challenging to build connections with classmates through a screen. But with time, I adapted to online learning and began to enjoy some of the practical sessions we could attend in person. My favourite memories come from our time in the nutrition and dietetics lab, where we prepared meals for projects and assignments. I especially remember a demonstration by the company Rationale, where they showcased a combi oven—complete with tasting samples!
In my final year, I had some of my most meaningful experiences. I volunteered at an Orang Asli village to speak about healthy eating, completed a community placement at a government health clinic where I consulted patients with type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes, and interned with the National Cancer Society of Malaysia. During the internship, I delivered a talk to paediatric cancer patients and their families on balanced eating and experimented with recipes using oral nutritional supplementation products. Each of these experiences confirmed my passion for community dietetics.
The most memorable experience of all was being chosen to give a speech as the student representative for the School of Health Sciences during my convocation. I was both surprised and honoured to have been selected, and it was an incredibly proud moment to represent my peers and share our collective journey.
What’s Next?
Since completing my degree, I have been balancing family responsibilities and enjoying some downtime, including a well-deserved vacation with one of my batchmates. I am also taking on volunteer work where I can, such as helping at the “Healthy Breakfast for Healthy Kids” programme in October 2024, held by UKM Child Specialist Hospital’s Dietetic and Nutrition unit.
My upcoming plans include earning a Certificate in Specialized Eldercare, as caregiving has always been close to my heart, and I am looking forward to growing my skills as a dietitian.
For now, I am open to any job opportunities that provide hands-on experience, and I hope to eventually dive into community dietetics.
Advice to Future Students
Do not let anyone discourage you from pursuing your passions. Time does not matter—show those who doubt you that you can achieve what you set out to do.
Remember, grades are not everything. You are far more than just a collection of letters and numbers on a piece of paper. While academics are important, do not focus solely on grades. Take the time to get involved in extracurriculars—join clubs, volunteer, and engage with the community. These experiences will shape you in ways the classroom cannot.
Avoid letting others box you into one path. You are free to explore interests and skills that help you grow personally and professionally. Also, pursuing a career in healthcare goes beyond knowledge and skills; kindness and integrity shape how we are seen by those we serve. As Steve Jobs once said, “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” I hope everyone finds that joy, and remember, when you love what you do, it never really feels like work.
Written by Nadira Izreen binti Jafril (DN120)
