When I completed my Foundation in Science at IMU, I encountered difficulties as I did not truly know where my passion lies and felt uncertain about my future career. Later, I discovered that IMU has Chinese Medicine (CM) course, and this had given me sparks of interest. Eventually, I decided to set sail my voyage in the CM field.
Since my first day of studying CM, I have embarked on a remarkable journey that has shaped my passion for healthcare and influenced my personal and professional growth. Through my experiences at IMU, I have gained invaluable knowledge, polished my skills, and fostered a deep commitment to making a positive impact in the field of Chinese Medicine.
IMU provided me with a rich and diverse learning environment, where I was exposed to a wide range of medical disciplines, cutting-edge research, and hands-on clinical experiences. From the very beginning, I was captivated by the dynamic and interactive teaching methods employed by the faculty, which encouraged critical thinking and stimulated my curiosity. For instance, problem-based learning (PBL), hand-on lessons and interactive practical and workshops made every lesson more vivid and interesting. Needless to say, these lessons had also enhanced my understanding and consolidated my knowledge. The supportive and nurturing academic environment at IMU also fostered my intellectual growth and instilled in me a deep appreciation for lifelong learning.
During the pandemic, it indeed a hard time for me as most of the classes could only be conducted through an online platform. Nevertheless, despite the challenges, I am grateful for the dedication of our lecturers who conducted practical classes in a face-to-face format. This hands-on approach greatly enhanced our clinical skills and prepared us effectively for future clinical practice.
For me the most unforgettable lesson was during the last semester when I have supervised clinical practice. In this semester, I was required to perform and apply what we have learned throughout the CM journey. I still remember when I got to perform acupuncture on my patient under supervision for the first time, my heart was racing, and I was so nervous. Nevertheless, with the guidance from our diligent lecturers, I was able to carry out the whole treatment session steadily and the sense of accomplishment that I had received is the most valuable treasure that I am deeply grateful and appreciative of.
Moreover, the multicultural environment at IMU had exposed me to a diverse range of health perspectives, cultures, and backgrounds. Collaborating with fellow students from various countries enriched my learning experience, enabling me to develop effective communication skills, cultural sensitivity, and a global mindset. It is through these interactions that I have come to appreciate the importance of collaborative teamwork in delivering comprehensive and patient-centered care.
After My Degree
Currently, I am working as a part-time clinical assistant at IMU Chinese Medicine Centre (ICMC) as my gap year before furthering my study in the future. Working as a part-time clinical assistant at the IMU Centre has been an immensely rewarding experience that has deepened my understanding of healthcare, solidified my commitment to patient care, and fortified my aspirations to become a healthcare professional. Other than introducing me to a variety of diseases which I seldom see during supervised clinical practice, it has also offered me a golden opportunity in interacting with patients from diverse backgrounds. Being a part of their healthcare journey taught me the significance of building trust relationships, listening attentively, and addressing their concerns with sensitivity.
As I reflect on my journey at IMU, I am filled with gratitude for the invaluable experiences and the unwavering support I have received. My time at IMU has reinforced my passion for Chinese Medicine, provided me with a strong foundation of knowledge and skills, and shaped my identity as a compassionate and dedicated healthcare professional.
Advice to my Fellow Juniors
Treasure every opportunity you have to sharpen your skills, expand your horizon and consolidate your foundation. Despite all of that, wisely use your time and try to socialise and join extra-curricular activities to achieve a balance between your academic and personal time.
My Plans for the Future
Looking ahead, I am excited to leverage on my experiences at IMU as I pursue my goals. I am committed to pursuing postgraduate studies, harnessing the power of research to advance medical knowledge, and contributing to the improvement of healthcare delivery. With the solid foundation laid at IMU, I am confident that I possess the skills, determination, and resilience to make a lasting impact in the field of medicine.
Written by Keng Shun Seng
