Student Stories

What made you choose to pursue a Life Sciences degree with La Trobe University?

Ever since I was young, I have been deeply passionate about science. I aspire to become a scientist through research on diseases and the development of innovative treatments that improve lives. Among the sciences, biology has always been my strongest subject, which led me to pursue a Life Sciences degree. The degree serves as a foundation for medical school, which is one of my long-term goals.

After completing high school, I planned to pursue my studies in Singapore. I did my own research and engaged in conversations with alumni, which eventually led me to choose PSB Academy for its strong student support and affiliation with La Trobe University.

Was there a particular moment that sparked your interest in science/healthcare?

I come from a family of healthcare professionals consisting of dental surgeons and several relatives are doctors. They had a strong influence on me and for years I hoped to follow a similar path and see the impact of healthcare firsthand. Over time, I realised I’m not drawn to becoming a doctor and am more interested in research and lab work.

How has your learning experience been so far?

The environment is highly conducive for learning, with a robust academic support available for students in any area of need. Courses are well structured, and lecturers are actively engaged throughout the process. If you put in the work, you’ll find the experience both rewarding and insightful.

The course provides an extensive hands-on experience, from numerous supervised lab sessions with classmates and lecturers in the first two years to independent lab work in the third year. You’ll also undertake a semester-long research project that builds your minute-taking, communication and research skills.

As for teaching styles, every lecturer has their own way of delivering the module content to students. Methods range from hands-on, interactive activities to quizzes, and all lecturers are approachable and genuinely supportive of our learning.

Any modules that you find interesting or beneficial to you in your learning?

I enjoyed all the modules taught by Dr Agnes. The technical skills learnt from the case studies in Molecular Genetics and Clinical Biochemistry and Haemeatology trained me to think critically and built a strong foundation in diagnostic reasoning. At the same time, the soft skills from working together with my batchmates have equipped me with the essential skills needed for any role.

Describe the student life in the campus.

Campus life here goes beyond studies. There are plenty of student clubs to join—such as the Health and Life Sciences Club (HLSC), Leadership Development Club (LDC), and Myanmar Student Club (MSC). I’m an Executive Committee member of the Leadership Development Club and am actively involved in volunteering with PSB Academy’s Open Houses.

What is one skill that you’ve gained personally from this course?

I’ve benefited from both hard and soft skills. On the hard skills side, the curriculum strengthened my technical knowledge and lab techniques. On the soft skills side, it sharpened my communication, teamwork, critical thinking, and time management—skills I use every day in and out of the lab. As an introvert, taking part in public speaking, workshops, and events at PSB Academy helped me become far more confident in speaking than before.

What advice would you give to someone considering the Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology and Molecular Biology) from La Trobe University?

Spend time researching your field so you know exactly what you’re signing up for. Prepare a few backup options in case you don’t get your first-choice course—but don’t give up; keep persevering. Most importantly, start consistently and stay dedicated from Year 1 in La Trobe’s Life Sciences courses.