Our journey began when the IMU Intervarsity Medical Sciences Quiz Competition (IMSQC) 2024 was first promoted. We then decided to form a team that represented the diverse talent within our Semester 4 cohort of IMU medical students. 

To ensure that every team member is represented in the competition, we have created the name “MaD WaRning”, which incorporates the initials of our members: Min Ci, Daryn, Warren and Raveena. Even from the beginning we knew that this competition was going to be different from any other competitions that we had taken part in.

IMSQC’s discipline-based format differed significantly from our usual system-based approach to learning. This was unfamiliar to us which required us to adjust quickly in order to devise an effective strategy to cover each discipline based on our individual areas of expertise.

However, balancing preparation with our academic commitments was no easy feat. As second-year medical students, we were already immersed in a tight schedule. Extracurricular responsibilities further stretched our time which also made it a challenge for us to revise and retain the depth of knowledge required for this competition. Despite the existing workload of each member, training drills were held frequently to ensure we were engaged and well prepared for the competition. Subsequently, not only we could maintain the momentum but also be able to foster our teamwork.

Despite a number of obstacles being faced throughout the preparation, we received immense help and support from our lecturers. They patiently answered our questions and provided clarification on difficult topics. Hence, we owe them a huge thanks as they kept our morale and spirits high throughout this tough journey. 

The first round of the competition was unexpected as we topped the leaderboard. Unfortunately, there was no time for celebration as the subsequent rounds turned out to be even tougher. Questions required precise knowledge and mental agonising where missing even one correct option meant a loss of an entire five marks.

These hurdles not only tested our team spirit and cooperation when working under pressure but also challenged our resilience to achieve our goals throughout the event. It was the tenacity and effort from the team members that paid off as we emerged as the champions and secured the winning trophy for IMU University. Winning at our home turf was a proud moment but beyond the victory, this competition was an enriching experience.

We also had the privilege and opportunity of interacting with students from other universities whose expertise and competitive spirit were truly inspiring. This has cultivated mutual respect and offered a glimpse into the vast potential within medical students.

We dedicate this achievement to each and every person who supported us in the course of this quiz. Our lecturers, peers and even the opponents we met along the way undertake a role in shaping this journey. The battle is over but we recognise that the true reward lies not just in the trophy but in the growth we experienced as both individuals and as a team. It is an honour to represent IMU University and we are eager for more opportunities that will continue to broaden our horizons.

– By MaD WaRning Team 

As a facilitator of the team, it was a great experience to work with this student team. Starting from developing the strategies of preparations until the day of competition, I appreciated the dedication and hard work of the students. In spite of their regular academic commitments, they constantly had their preparation going. The efforts were clearly seen in their performance during the competition. It was a great pleasure and pride to see the team racing through initial rounds and making it to the finals and finally emerging as champions. Kudos to the team. I truly appreciate the opportunity and the platform created by the organising committee for the medical students.