I joined IMU after completing my A-Levels at another university, instead of joining IMU’s Foundation programme. Given that I was drawn to IMU’s reputation as Malaysia’s first and most established private medical and healthcare university, I knew it would provide me with a strong foundation in dietetics. As IMU is the pioneer in Dietetics with Nutrition degree programme and is designed to meet the industry’s highest standards, I was reassured that I’d be gaining knowledge and skills that were truly aligned with professional needs.
I began my degree studies during a particularly challenging period – the early COVID-19 pandemic. Adapting to online learning was not easy, but IMU’s dedicated faculty ensured that we had access to the tools and resources necessary to thrive in an online learning environment, making a tough situation more manageable.
Comprehensive Curriculum
Throughout my four years in IMU’s Dietetics with Nutrition programme, I found the curriculum to be comprehensive, seamlessly blending theoretical knowledge with practical application. The programme equipped students with the necessary tools to succeed in the diverse areas of dietetics. For instance, the Medical Nutrition Therapy course allowed us to learn about nutrition-based treatment for various health conditions based on evidence-based practices.
What made this course especially enriching was the opportunity to prepare and cook the meals we had planned and modified by applying Medical Nutrition Therapy knowledge in real time. Moreover, the practical sessions were always enjoyable, and we get to taste the delicious food cooked by our classmates after every session, which made the learning experience even more engaging.
Final Year Internship
One of the most impactful parts of my time at IMU was my final-year internship, where my rotation included food service, community, and clinical settings. This invaluable experience allowed me to immerse myself in real-world dietetics environment, gaining hands-on experience in the various roles and responsibilities of a dietitian. IMU’s Dietetics with Nutrition programme proved essential for the successful completion of my internship, as it equipped me with the knowledge and skills I needed to adapt to the different settings.
I recall a particularly memorable experience during my time as a community dietitian when I had the opportunity to engage in “diet chit-chats” with community members. It was an incredibly rewarding experience, as I was able to conduct nutrition screenings and provide consultations for individuals interested to improve their diet. The feeling of helping people to improve their health and wellbeing through nutrition was deeply fulfilling. The internship was not an easy challenge, but with the support and tough love from our lecturers, clinical instructors, local preceptors, and fellow classmates, I felt well-prepared and empowered to succeed.
IMU’s Dietetics with Nutrition programme played a crucial role in helping me build a strong foundation and providing various hands-on experiences that helped me discover my passion for community dietetics. I am now preparing to step into my role as a community dietitian, where I look forward to supporting the health and nutrition of the community. My goal is to continue contributing to the field of dietetics, particularly in community health, where I can work to make a positive impact on public health and support people in adopting sustainable lifestyle changes.
Advice to Future Students
To future students, my advice would be to take advantage of every opportunity to gain hands-on experience, as these moments will truly shape your skills and confidence as you step into the professional world.
Embrace the learning process and remember that staying curious and passionate about your field will not only carry you through challenges but also inspire others around you.
Finally, remember to cherish the memories you make with your friends, lecturers, and clinical instructors. They are the ones who will make your journey unforgettable. My time at IMU has not only prepared me for a successful career but has also given me lasting memories and friendships that I will carry with me into the future.
Prepared by Hoe Huey Huey (DN120)
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