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From a young age, I have always been fascinated by how living things grow and function. My curiosity about biology and chemistry deepened in secondary school when I discovered the remarkable intricacies of the human body.
When the Covid-19 pandemic struck during my final school years, I spent several months at home exploring new hobbies—learning to cook with my mother and trying out home-based exercises. These experiences sparked a lasting interest in health and wellbeing, shaping the person I am today.
Inspired by Hippocrates’ words, “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food,” I became intrigued by the science of nutrition and the art of the human body. During my search for universities, I visited IMU and was captivated by its environment and opportunities. Though modest in size, IMU felt rich in knowledge, growth, and adventure. With passion and curiosity, I began my four-year journey in Dietetics at IMU.
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They say time flies when you are having a wonderful time—and my four years at IMU certainly did. From engaging lectures to practical patient interactions, every experience deepened my understanding of how nutrition can transform lives.
Year Three was a turning point—when I first encountered Medical Nutrition Therapy, the very essence of Hippocrates’ philosophy. By Year Four, my placement experiences brought me face to face with patients, mentors, and real-life challenges that strengthened both my clinical and interpersonal skills.
My IMU story would not be complete without sharing my experiences with IMU Nutrition and Dietetics Students’ Association (INDSA), Student Ambassadors (SA), and Student Dietetics Centre (SDC)—three communities that profoundly shaped my growth.
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Beyond that, SDC also offered opportunities to serve diverse communities such as the Orang Asli community and children with autism spectrum disorder. These experiences reminded me of the real impact our profession can make, deepening both my empathy and sense of purpose.
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Placement at
Hospital Picaso
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Looking back, IMU has not only shaped me intellectually but also transformed me personally—equipping me with the knowledge, resilience, and compassion needed to thrive in the real world.
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As my student life draws to a close, I often ask myself: What’s next? While the path ahead remains open, one thing is certain—I wish to continue promoting health and wellbeing through food and nutrition. With the knowledge, skills, and experiences I have gained at IMU, I feel confident stepping into the next chapter as a dietitian.
Perhaps one day, I will return to IMU—not as a student, but as a professional sharing my experiences with the next generation.
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Be wise and be brave.
Be wise in managing your time, in recognising opportunities, and in building meaningful connections.
Be brave in facing challenges, learning from mistakes, and exploring the unfamiliar.
Your journey at IMU will shape you in ways you cannot yet imagine—so make every moment count.
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Written by Gan Jia Yi, who graduated with her degree on 1 November 2025 and was awarded the Book Prize for Best Dietetics Student.
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[post_title] => More than a Degree: The Life I Built at IMU [post_excerpt] => Gan Jia Yi recounts her time as a Dietetics with Nutrition student at IMU. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => more-than-a-degree-the-life-i-built-at-imu [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2026-01-21 15:29:35 [post_modified_gmt] => 2026-01-21 07:29:35 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://imu.edu.my/?post_type=imunews&p=311403 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => imunews [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 309404 [post_author] => 7 [post_date] => 2025-10-16 08:04:51 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-10-16 00:04:51 [post_content] =>[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=""]
When my name was announced as the Student Ambassador of the Year, I was genuinely taken aback. I remember sitting there, clapping for others, never once expecting that my name would be called last.
Looking back, I still find it emotional to receive this award, as I never carried out duties as an ambassador with the intention of public recognition, nor was I aware that such an award even existed until that glorious night. My focus has always revolved around being active in community projects to help others in quiet yet meaningful ways. To me, this award is more than a personal achievement; it is a symbol of the strong principles I hold as a student, friend, and a leader. In the grand scheme of it all, I find great satisfaction working with different students, lecturers, and staff. It stands as a reminder that the smallest acts of kindness, when done consistently and sincerely, can leave a lasting impact.
At the foundation of everything I do, lies one of my strongest principles, which is to be the most reliable person in the room. I define reliability as a form of respect for the people who trust you. It means consistently showing up, even on days when you do not want to (perfect gym motivation). It is no secret that this trait will drastically improve one’s social and business life. Whether it was organising events, supporting my peers in difficult moments, or volunteering in university activities, I’ve always tried to ensure that I could be counted on, often taking up important roles. I believe that everyone should have this value in their moral arsenal, as it will take them far in life after graduation.
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As a 4th-year Dental student at IMU University, there were days when things became overwhelming as I had to juggle my syllabus and clinical sessions daily. Yet, I held on to the belief that authentic leadership is not about perfection, but consistency. A reliable leader gives others the confidence to do their best, knowing they are supported by someone who genuinely cares.
Beyond reliability, my actions as a student ambassador are deeply rooted in my fondness for helping others. I have always believed that we rise by lifting others. There is a unique sense of fulfilment that comes from seeing someone else succeed because you were there to guide them. These little values tend to go a long way in consolidating one’s reputation as a notable individual. I often remind myself that helping one person may not change the world, but it may change the world for that person completely. This sentence resonates deeply with me as I understand how it feels to be helpless during trying times.
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Over time, I realised that these moments of service accumulate to build a legacy of kindness and service.
I’ll be the first to admit that I am not perfect, as there have been times when I have fumbled in group projects, either from sheer carelessness or naivety. But instead of letting those moments define me, I always choose the humble approach to reflect on them deeply and turn them into essential lessons so that I can be better in the future. An optimistic mindset goes a long way. As the saying goes, a gem cannot be polished without friction, nor a man perfected without trials. I believe that every time I make a mistake, I will always be one step ahead in improving myself. These little steps, when added up, can fully shape the behaviour of an individual. Through reflection and self-awareness, I continue striving to become a better person each day, not just for my own sake, but for everyone who places their trust in me.
Another philosophy that defines my experience as an ambassador can be summarised by three words: UFC – Unity, Friendship, and Collaboration. I hold these values close because they represent the essence of what makes our community strong.
The Student Ambassador programme has provided me with the opportunity to meet amazing new people from different walks of life. We have worked together to make ends meet while organising university-based events. I find it interesting and humbling to share and receive ideas from others, especially those younger than me, as their ideas are very creative and innovative. The most notable memory that I will always cherish is the Student Ambassador Camp, an out-of-campus event that pushes us both mentally and physically, while strengthening our camaraderie.
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Throughout my journey here at IMU University, I have found great passion in taking part in programmes that involve interaction with people. For those interested in boosting confidence and communication skills, I would highly recommend events like Education Fairs and IMU Open Day as significant starting points for participation. Communication is imperative, especially in the real world when we are dealing with both patients and business, as well as maintaining a dynamic and effective work team. Thus, it is never too late to try new things.
Beyond that, I take great joy in contributing my photography and videography skills during various events. Capturing meaningful moments and documenting experiences not only brings me personal fulfilment but also allows me to sharpen my creative and technical abilities continuously.
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Receiving this award has been a profoundly humbling experience. It made me pause and reflect on the values that guide my journey. I am grateful for the hurdles that I have faced, as they have pushed me out of my comfort zone to resolve them. I enjoy working with my colleagues to tackle complex situations and host memorable and impactful events, such as U-Race 2025 and Interprofessional Learning Day 2025. I see this recognition not as the culmination of my efforts, but as encouragement for me to keep growing. I firmly believe that authentic leadership is not defined by titles or applause, but by the quiet moments when no one is watching. To the future leaders out there reading this, if you are feeling lost in your projects, don’t give up, because nobody is born with this trait.
As I look back on this journey, I am overwhelmed with gratitude. This award is not mine alone; it belongs to every person who has guided me and worked alongside me. Leadership is never a solo act, as it is a continuous exchange of trust, communication, and companionship.
Moving forward, I strive to lift others, as a friend who listens, a dental student who serves with purpose, and hopefully one day as a tutor to enlighten others.
The Student Ambassador programme has been truly a worthwhile experience.
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Written by Ferdinand Fershan Ng Yiyuen
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[post_title] => Unexpected, Unforgettable: My Journey to Becoming IMU’s Student Ambassador of the Year [post_excerpt] => IMU Dental student Ferdinand Fershan Ng Yiyuen shares his inspiring journey as a Student Ambassador, culminating in being honoured with the Student Ambassador of the Year award. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => unexpected-unforgettable-my-journey-to-becoming-imus-student-ambassador-of-the-year [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-10-15 14:59:54 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-10-15 06:59:54 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://imu.edu.my/?post_type=imunews&p=309404 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => imunews [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 3 [filter] => raw ) WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 309158 [post_author] => 7 [post_date] => 2025-09-19 09:25:26 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-09-19 01:25:26 [post_content] =>[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=""]
The Mastering Professional Presentation Skills Workshop, an annual training initiative organised by the Department of Social Sciences, School of Psychology and Social Sciences (SOPSS), IMU, was successfully conducted for the newly appointed Student Ambassadors on 19 July 2025. This year’s workshop session was facilitated by Dr Thulasimani Munohsamy and Dr Arlini Alias, and welcomed 21 enthusiastic participants, guided by Ms Nur Attikah Shuada Binti Abdullah from IMU Student Services.
The one-day workshop was designed with a clear objective: to enhance students’ confidence, creativity, and communication skills through structured individual and group presentations. These skills are not only essential for their roles as Student Ambassadors but also crucial qualities for future health professionals.
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The workshop encouraged participants to explore creativity and confidence through speech and presentation. It included:
The practical approach provided a safe and engaging environment for students to practise and polish their oratory skills while working closely with peers.
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Feedback from participants reflected the workshop’s strong impact:
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Through this workshop, the newly appointed Student Ambassadors not only honed their presentation skills but also strengthened their leadership qualities, teamwork, and confidence, empowering them to represent IMU with professionalism and excellence in the years to come.
The Mastering Professional Presentation Skills Workshop continues to be a key initiative in nurturing students who will not only speak well but also lead well, qualities that define future-ready graduates.
Prepared by Dr Thulasimani Munohsamy (SOPSS)
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[post_title] => Mastering Professional Presentation Skills Workshop 2025: Building Confidence and Communication Among IMU Student Ambassadors [post_excerpt] => An annual training initiative by IMU for its Student Ambassadors. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => mastering-professional-presentation-skills-workshop-2025-building-confidence-and-communication-among-imu-student-ambassadors [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-09-23 08:40:23 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-09-23 00:40:23 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://imu.edu.my/?post_type=imunews&p=309158 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => imunews [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 306815 [post_author] => 7 [post_date] => 2025-03-11 16:37:07 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-03-11 08:37:07 [post_content] =>[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=""]
On 15 February 2025, we (the volunteers of the Tidy Trails Initiative) woke up bright and early to make our way to Kanching Falls, Rawang which was a 45-minute bus-ride away.
Upon reaching at 7:15am, we started off with a quick briefing and distribution of items such as garbage pickers and trash bags at the foot of the hill.
Once everyone was ready, each team set off one at a time, led by their respective trail leads. Our plan was for each team, consisting of seven people, to cover a different level of the waterfall—from Level 1 to 5—with the hike becoming progressively more challenging at each level.
Each team made their way swiftly towards their final destinations and immediately set to work. We were all shocked and disappointed by the amount of litter found at these sites, it was sadly way more than anticipated. Nevertheless, everyone tried their best to clear as much as possible. The litter consisted mostly of glass bottles, canned drinks and plastic bags.
After the clean-up session, volunteers had the opportunity to play and relax in the waterfalls. Many thoroughly enjoyed the refreshing dip and had a splendid time!
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After that, all teams carefully carried their trash bags back down to the entrance for proper disposal. This was followed by a closing speech from our project lead, wrapping up the day's efforts before we departed from the venue.
We at Tidy Trails sincerely hope that everyone had a wonderful time contributing to a good cause while enjoying the hike. We also hope that our volunteers will continue to practice this habit in the future, remembering that no contribution is too small—because small actions add up over time to create big results!
All we need to do is care.
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Tidy Trails Initiative is a new project by IMU Student Ambassadors in collaboration with the Community Service Club to promote the importance of maintaining environmental cleanliness. This initiative sheds light on the importance of maintaining the beauty of nature and the environment, giving awareness to the detrimental effects of littering and highlights how the environment is closely interconnected to our health and personal well-being.
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[post_title] => Tidy Trails Takes on Kanching Falls: A Clean-Up Mission with a Splash of Fun! [post_excerpt] => An initiative by IMU Student Ambassadors in collaboration with the Community Service Club to promote the importance of maintaining environmental cleanliness. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => tidy-trails-takes-on-kanching-falls-a-clean-up-mission-with-a-splash-of-fun [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-03-12 08:56:49 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-03-12 00:56:49 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://imu.edu.my/?post_type=imunews&p=306815 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => imunews [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 304768 [post_author] => 5 [post_date] => 2024-12-30 05:43:09 [post_date_gmt] => 2024-12-30 05:43:09 [post_content] =>[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=""]
On 13 July 2024, twenty one IMU student ambassadors gathered for an intensive workshop on "Mastering Professional Presentation Skills," facilitated by Dr Arlini Alias and Dr Thulasimani Munohsamy from the School of Psychology and Social Science (SOPSS). The workshop aimed to equip students with the essential skills to deliver compelling and professional presentations in various academic and professional settings.
The workshop was designed to be highly interactive, with a focus on practical application. Dr Arlini and Dr Thulasimani emphasized the importance of clear communication, confident delivery, and effective use of visual aids. The facilitators guided the participants through various stages of crafting a presentation, from structuring content to engaging the audience and managing nerves.
Throughout the session, students were encouraged to participate actively, ask questions, and practice their presentation skills in real-time. This hands-on approach allowed the participants to receive immediate feedback, refine their techniques, and build confidence in their abilities.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_text_separator title="Key Takeaways from the Workshop" color="chino"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Participants learned several crucial elements of professional presentation, including:[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width="2/5"][vc_column_text]Content Organisation:[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width="3/5"][vc_column_text]Structuring presentations with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width="2/5"][vc_column_text]Visual Aids:[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width="3/5"][vc_column_text]Using slides and other visual tools effectively to enhance the message without overwhelming the audience.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width="2/5"][vc_column_text]Audience Engagement:[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width="3/5"][vc_column_text]Techniques for maintaining interest and addressing questions confidently.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width="2/5"][vc_column_text]Body Language and Voice Modulation:[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width="3/5"][vc_column_text]The importance of non-verbal communication and varying tone to keep the audience engaged.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width="2/5"][vc_column_text]Overcoming Anxiety:[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width="3/5"][vc_column_text]Strategies to manage stage fright and present with poise.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width="1/2"][vc_single_image image="304769" img_size="large" alignment="center" css=""][/vc_column][vc_column width="1/2"][vc_column_text]The workshop was met with overwhelmingly positive feedback from the student ambassadors. Many participants expressed that the session exceeded their expectations and provided them with practical skills they could apply immediately in their academic and future professional endeavours.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=""]
One participant remarked, "The workshop was incredibly valuable. I feel much more confident in my ability to deliver a presentation now."
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Dr Arlini (right in the photo) and Dr Thulasimani's expertise and approachable teaching style were particularly appreciated, with students noting that the facilitators made complex concepts easy to understand and implement.
The interactive nature of the workshop, combined with the supportive environment, contributed to the overall success of the event.
Workshops like "Mastering Professional Presentation Skills" are vital in preparing students for the challenges they will face in their academic and professional journeys. By building their presentation capabilities, SOPSS continues to empower its students to become effective communicators and confident leaders.
The success of this workshop is a testament to the commitment of the SOPSS faculty to provide high-quality, practical training opportunities that equip students with the skills they need to excel.
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With ongoing support and further opportunities for skill development, these student ambassadors are well on their way to making impactful contributions both within and beyond the university.
Written by Dr Thulasimani Munohsamy.
Edited by Dr Arlini Alias
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[post_title] => Mastering Professional Presentation Skills: Enhancing Confidence and Communication Among Student Ambassadors [post_excerpt] => 21 IMU student ambassadors gathered for an intensive workshop on "Mastering Professional Presentation Skills," which was aimed to equip students with the essential skills to deliver compelling and professional presentations in various academic and professional settings. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => mastering-professional-presentation-skills-enhancing-confidence-and-communication-among-student-ambassadors [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-10-31 14:34:16 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-10-31 06:34:16 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://imu.edu.my/?post_type=imunews&p=304768 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => imunews [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )