Chen Xiaorui: My Pursuit of Knowledge in Chinese Medicine at IMU

Growing up with having the autonomy to make my own decisions, I was allowed to make my own choices throughout my educational journey. It all started with me selecting the science stream during my secondary years, choosing the ideal Pre-University course and ultimately opting for the IMU Chinese Medicine for my undergraduate studies. All these decisions are linked to one another, just like assembling gears in precision machinery, allowing me to pursue my dream. Looking back to the 4.5 years spent at IMU studying Chinese Medicine, I can proudly say that I have found the perfect piece that enlightens my perspective and plays an inspiring guide for my future career.

 

At IMU, we have the privilege to embrace the beauty of Chinese Medicine in English, an important medium to connect and explain Chinese Medicine to the rest of the world. My fundamental knowledge of Chinese Medicine was built through the well-organised Chinese Medicine modules and the integration of Western Medicine classes. We had the chance to explore anatomy, pharmacology, radiology, physiology, and pathology which ensured our readiness for future practice in the modern world.

 

My interest in Chinese Medicine grew steadily as we proceeded into the clinical modules in the later semesters such as internal medicine, traumatology and paediatric. IMU also provides us with the invaluable opportunity to explore our interest in various clinical specialties through the internship training. I have used this opportunity to refine my clinical skills, learn the art of communication and embrace the moral and empathetic attributes of a skilled Chinese Medicine practitioner.

 

Furthermore, with the guidance and support of my mentor and lecturers, the challenges encountered throughout my entire academic journey, especially the difficulties faced during the internship, became more manageable.

Moreover, IMU also offers various activities and clubs for socialising and networking with students from other programmes at the University. I seized the opportunity to participate in orientation events and developed valuable friendships with students from other programmes such as Dentistry, Medicine, and Chiropractic. Throughout the 4.5 years journey at IMU, I have organised a Chinese Medicine workshop in collaboration with the IMU Intravasity Club, actively taken part in IMU Chinese Medicine Week events, explored my interest in squash and participated in the IMU Cup.

 

These incredible friendships and experiences spiced up my university life, moulding my character and providing the support to overcome all the challenges that came my way. I cannot overstate my gratitude for the confidence and preparation that IMU Chinese Medicine has provided for my promising future in this field.

After graduating from IMU Chinese Medicine, I had the chance to work and apply my skills and interest in the field. It is fascinating to see how I can apply what I have learned, witness the patient’s recovery in my hand, and continue to learn and gain more clinical experience from the place that I work. Witnessing how all the gears come together to create a seamless machinery of knowledge, though it is still refining and grinding into place, is fulfilling and satisfying.

 

After a year of working experience, I know everything is ready for me to embark on my next milestone: pursuing my master’s journey in Chinese Medicine. I am aware that there is still much more for me to learn in order to achieve my ambition of specialising in paediatrics. But with all the knowledge and preparation IMU has provided me, I have more confidence in facing the coming master’s entrance examination in December.

 

The path ahead may present challenges and numerous goals to accomplish. However, armed with the knowledge and skills from IMU, I am eager to embrace a brighter future and make my mark in the world of Chinese Medicine.

 

Written by Chen Xiaorui, an international student from China who chose to pursue Chinese Medicine in Malaysia.