Nursing his passion in Singapore
INTERNATIONAL Medical University nursing cohort of NU108 (2008 Intake) Galvin Chung Jia Jun works as a nurse in Singapore. He relates his journey from studying his degree in nursing at IMU to where he is now.
“I started my journey at IMU, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur studying the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Hons) after completing my STPM. I spent four years studying there, being exposed to a balance of theory and clinical practice in nursing.”
Chung said it was never easy as it can be mentally stressful when students are not well prepared, such as “when handling your first patient’s death”.
It can also be a struggle getting used to the various norms in various hospitals that students are attached with, such as being in private as opposed to government hospitals.
“All in all, I feel that it is worth it to pay the required fees at IMU as at the end of the day, the quality of education provided ensures students are well equipped with skills and knowledge before they step into the working world.”
Even before Chung completed his final semester, he received job offers and decided to take up the one from the National University Hospital, Singapore before his graduation.
“I started working there from November 2013 in the Emergency Department. This is the most exciting speciality area in nursing especially if you are an adrenaline junkie and thrive in a fast-paced working environment,” he added.
Working as a nurse in the emergency department is unlike that portrayed in TVs.
“There is a lot more drama every day, and there is no such thing as a normal routine in the emergency department. The situation constantly changes and things move very fast. But this helps prevent boredom and keeps the job interesting.”
Chung also managed to gain experience there as he was exposed to all types of injuries and illnesses.
“It is rewarding helping out someone who is facing a life-threatening situation – but not everyone is suited for this high-paced environment, which can be emotionally challenging.
“I am grateful my time at IMU had taught me to be mentally prepared to face these stressful situations calmly while also anticipating changes regularly,” Chung explained.
IMU offers a four-year Bachelor of Nursing (Hons) degree, which prepares a student to become a registered nurse, qualified to practise in a variety of settings in either the public or private healthcare sectors.
Students are provided with opportunities to learn a whole range of nursing skills in addition to acquiring knowledge related to nursing practice.
The commencement for the nursing programme is in September each year and IMU welcomes students with pre-university qualifications to join as a start to a promising and rewarding yet challenging future with a career in nursing.
If you have pre-university qualifications, make an online application today. Scholarships are available.
If you have just completed your SPM and do not have pre-university qualification, consider enrolling in the one-year IMU Foundation in Science (FiS), the direct route for entry into any of the university’s degree programmes.
■ For details, refer to www.imu.edu.my, e-mail start@imu.edu.my or call IMU directly at 03-2731 7272.