Gaining priceless knowledge, experience
“ALONG with mostly engaging lecture lessons, the lab and practical sessions are still by far, the most exciting throughout my time in the Bachelor of Science (Hons) Biology with Psychology at Sunway University”, said Calvin Goh Bok Sun, who completed the programme last year.
“We were always given the chance to apply hands-on what we learn in theory. Some of the memorable moments include dissecting real mammalian brains and making microscopic studies off them, studying bacteria populations on body parts and common public spaces, trying out physiological measurements on each other in class and taking part in social experiments to understand fascinating and often humorous human behaviours.
“I owe it all to my lecturers who made learning an exciting experience. The knowledge and experience gained is priceless”, said Goh, whose interest in biological psychology started after reading the biography of Charles Whitman, a model student and an exemplary member of the United States Marines in his early years before he murdered his mother and wife, and went on a shooting rampage, where he killed 16 students.
“In the programme, one of the most fascinating elements I discovered was the relationship between gut microbiota, the resident microorganisms in the intestines, and brain function. Early research has revealed that the bacteria could impact brain development, its biochemistry and subsequently, behaviour, at a much greater degree than originally thought. A study in Stockholm has divulged how germ-free mice grown in sterile conditions from birth are significantly more adventurous and less-restrained when compared with clone mice colonised with their natural microbiota.”
The programme is judiciously diverse, so it can get overwhelming at times to digest huge amounts of information. Even so, my course mates and I were fortunate to be under the guidance of dedicated and experienced lecturers, who strived to ensure that we did not get left behind.”
Goh interned at Sunway Medical Centre where he learned about human diseases and how they were diagnosed.
“My final semester was the most exciting as we were given the chance to work on experimental studies with our supervisors. Presenting our final projects to the public and academic guests from partner universities also provided us networking opportunities. All in all, I am proud to say that it was the best three years of my life,” said Goh, who is now an assistant tutor undertaking his PhD in Science at Monash University Malaysia.
He hopes to be well-versed in his field of interest and become part of the workforce in the academic research industry.
With 75 per cent of the subjects focusing on biology, graduates of the Bachelor of Science (Hons) Biology with Psychology will be equipped with a strong foundation to further their postgraduate studies in neuroscience and clinical or pharmaceutical research.
Students are also provided opportunities to develop research skills and practical experience through working on independent research projects during the final year.
The Bachelor of Science (Hons) Biology with Psychology at Sunway University is validated by Lancaster University, and upon successful completion of the programme, graduates are awarded two certificates — one from Sunway University and another from Lancaster University.