After completing my International Baccalaureate Diploma at a private school in Penang, I was looking for opportunities to pursue a degree in dietetics at a notable tertiary institution. I chose IMU as I believed I could benefit greatly from the experience and knowledge of the esteemed lecturers. Furthermore, the Dietetics with Nutrition programme at IMU has also been awarded the International Accreditation for Education Programs for Dietitian-Nutritionists conferred by the International Confederation of Dietetics Association (ICDA), which gave me more confidence that the curriculum at IMU would shape me into becoming a competent dietetics graduate.
Through IMU’s rigorous programme, I have gained real-world experiences, relevant knowledge and skills in the field of community, food service and clinical dietetics.
My experience at IMU has been very fulfilling, both in terms of academics and social life. My favourite part of my learning journey here was definitely the lecturers and clinical instructors who offered me so much academic support and guidance that enabled me to develop my core dietetics competencies. There were times when I would feel down or underperform, especially during my clinical placement period, but because of the motivation and meaningful advice given by my lecturers and clinical instructors, I was able to push myself forward from setbacks and build more confidence in myself.
Another memorable experience was my time in Hospital Tuanku Ja’afar, Seremban during our clinical attachments. Although my clinical placement was one of the most tiring parts of the final year training, living with friends made it a lot better as it felt like we were all in the same boat.
I fondly remember the times we would come back each day from the hospital, feeling exhausted and half-asleep, yet we would find ways to cheer each other up by cooking dinner together and having meaningful discussions about our case encounters.
I will also cherish other memorable experiences such as my time as an IMU Student Ambassador and taking part in various volunteering experiences, such as at the IMU Cares health screening event in Seremban.
What's Next for Me?
I have currently been offered a job at a private hospital in Kuala Lumpur and will commence working by the end of the year. My plan for the future is to gain adequate clinical experience and go on to pursue a Master’s degree in community nutrition or public health as I have always had an interest in the potential for nutrition to become a leverage for enhancing public and community health. A huge reason why I joined dietetics is to advocate for a healthier Malaysia, and so delving into the field of community nutrition would definitely support future advocacy efforts.
Advice to Future Student
My advice to future students is to study with passion because passion gives you momentum and momentum helps you persevere. I have had my fair share of setbacks and difficulties, especially in my later semesters and during my clinical training. But if you have the passion to continue to grow and learn, then you will not allow these setbacks to overwhelm you. Have confidence in your ability to perform and succeed in what you set yourself to do, and work towards it. Get the support you need and surely…success will come your way.
Secondly, have a growth mindset. Surely, there will be many bumpy rides on the way, but each time you encounter a difficulty, rather than thinking ‘I can’t do it or I’m not good enough’, it is more healthy and beneficial to think this instead: ‘This challenge will help me become better or I will only grow after this setback’. Having a healthy mindset allows you to overcome barriers in your studies. It helped me and I believe it will help you too!
Dream, set goals, work hard, achieve and…stay humble!
Author: Faustina Anne A/P Santhana Dass, IMU Dietetics with Nutrition Graduate
