Jasmine Chairunnisa

The University of Melbourne ranks #1 for Medicine in Australia and #14 globally for Clinical Medicine and #16 for Public Health*. More importantly, I was drawn to the University of Melbourne’s Master of Biomedical Science. The Master of Biomedical Science is a coursework degree with a strong research component in its curriculum. In this degree, students can experience a wonderful blend of coursework and research. I believed that this combination would be immensely useful for my future endeavours.

I have always had an interest in the medical world (which I reckon is a given due to my familial ties with it). I discovered a possible career pathway in research along the way and thought that it would suit my objects and values best, as I’m deeply enthusiastic in gaining and sharing knowledge.

^{*Source: The University of Melbourne - Facts and figures. September 2024.}

The opportunity to study at one of Australia’s leading universities in an area I’m passionate about is a privilege on its own. The Master of Biomedical Science is the perfect balance of coursework and research. My first year was focused more on the coursework components and familiarising myself with the background of my research, while my second year is focused on my research project and completing my thesis.

I like how I can tailor the electives for the coursework component of the Master of Biomedical Science based on my interests. I have completed units in cell therapy, metabolic disease, and even scientific knowledge. I find it fascinating that I am not only learning the sciences but also other aspects that can boost research outcomes, e.g. understanding regulations, and effectively presenting results and communicating with different audiences.

Furthermore, the research component allows me to gain real lab experience, which I did not have much of before due to the COVID-19 pandemic. I am fascinated by what goes on in a lab, how an experiment is carried out, and how data is collected and analysed.

I also appreciate the University of Melbourne’s proximity to the CBD – it is easy to get anywhere from the Parkville campus!

The Master of Biomedical Science has equipped me with adequate knowledge and experience to embark on a career in academia and/or various other biomedical science-related careers (e.g. enterprise). A lot of the units actually invited experts from a broad range of biomedical science-related careers to be guest speakers. Listening to these leaders in the field speak about what they want to achieve was very insightful and eye-opening.

I am hoping to do a PhD and then pursue a career in academia.

I believe that the benefits of continuing your study outweigh the drawbacks. I do acknowledge that there will be hard times, especially if you are an international student like me. However, once you find your footing, a good support system, and a field you are specifically drawn to, it will become more manageable, and you will enjoy it more and more.

The variety of career pathways is immense in biomedical sciences and there is a lot of fun to be had while you discover the field, so keep an open mind and look forward to the journey at Melbourne!