Student Stories

The distance between your dreams and reality is action.

Could you share with us your current role as a Medical Technologist at Innoquest Diagnostics? I process Covid-19 samples and ensure that accurate results are pushed out to the public. In my role, I have to verify patient details and only process the samples with our machines once we have verified the patient details. I have to ensure that every sample is treated with utmost confidentiality and priority despite the job scope being more of a routine work. What drives you to pursue a career in biomedical science? I believe there are plenty of exciting opportunities in this career field, and it is an honour to help people in my job. It was always my goal to be in a patient-centric field. When the pandemic hit, I was working in a clinic. At that time, it was more of a calling when I realised I needed to take matters into my own hands and join the fight against the virus. I pursued the role when I asked around for openings from my peers in university. The connection I forged when I was pursuing my studies definitely opened doors for me, and I would not be where I am today without it. What has been the biggest challenge in your career and how did you overcome it? The biggest challenge is coming into close contact with Covid-19 samples. However, I took the necessary precaution when handling samples and always maintained immaculate hygiene. How did your education course at PSB Academy help you to perform better in your current working environment? The theory and application I learnt from the course helped me better understand what goes on behind the routine testing. My work heavily revolves around the molecular biology department, given the nature of the virus. So, the lab sessions at PSB Academy allowed me to learn techniques such as nucleic acid purification and extraction, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), which helped me understand my work. What was your most memorable time at PSB Academy? All the laboratory sessions. Reviewing the lab session before the actual session was helpful as it gave me an idea of what I was doing for the day. On the lab days, I can focus on conducting the actual experiments and enjoy the entire process. What advice would you share with our fresh graduates looking to embark on a similar career? Give any opportunity that comes their way a shot! Medical Technologists can be seen as unsung heroes. The general public may not be aware of the contributions in the background, but that does not mean what we do is insignificant; in fact, it is far from it. Have a tenacious and fighting spirit, and you will enjoy the role. Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years? I envision myself in a senior or leadership role.