"The lecturers in the Bachelor of Biomedicine are very engaging and well-versed in the field of biomedical sciences. It is so exciting to hear about their fascinating research projects and very encouraging to see how open they are to undergraduate students hoping to get involved in their research too."
Meet Mandy
Mary started her Bachelor of Biomedicine (Major: Pharmacology) in 2023 at the University of Melbourne. Prior to this, she completed her high school diploma at an international school. She was born and raised in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
She was awarded a Melbourne Global Scholars Award, Undergraduate Vacation Scholarship at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute (WEHI), and SVI Summer Scholarship in 2024. She was also involved in the CSIRO’s Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) in 2025.
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My biology classes in high school inspired my interest in the human body. I was fascinated by how organ systems were distinct yet complementary. As I progressed to advanced biology, I realised that I had a greater affinity to the molecular and cellular aspects of biology and became determined to pursue a future in biomedical research. I aspired to find new therapeutics to treat various diseases.
Not long after I decided to pursue biomedical research, I lodged an application for the Bachelor of Biomedicine at the University of Melbourne. I was drawn to the University of Melbourne because it’s located in the heart of the infamous Melbourne Biomedical Precinct, with other well-known academic institutes and healthcare facilities such as the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre and the Royal Melbourne Hospital. This was extra reassurance that I would be well-supported in my career path and aspirations based on proximity alone!
Besides this, Melbourne is a city rich in cultural diversity, very similar to my hometown in Malaysia. I have been fortunate to meet so many friends and people who have enriched my undergraduate experience, and I feel like I am part of the community.
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The Bachelor of Biomedicine is challenging but it has prepared me for my future career path. I have developed my ability to analyse data, perform literature reviews, think critically, and synthesise new information. My studies have also helped me refine soft skills such as ability for teamwork and communication.
The lecturers in the Bachelor of Biomedicine are very engaging and well-versed in biomedical sciences. It is so exciting to hear about their fascinating research projects and very encouraging to see how open they are to undergraduate students hoping to get involved in their research too.
Other highlights so far:
- Study abroad/exchange
- Student clubs and societies
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As a budding biomedical scientist, I feel so happy to have been supported by the Bachelor of Biomedicine and the biomedical sciences community at Melbourne.
Currently, I am hoping to do an Honours year after completing Biomedicine. Afterwards, I plan to pursue postgraduate studies in biomedical research.
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As an international student, my best advice is to be bold and open to new experiences while remaining authentic to your values. At first, it can be hard to adapt to a new environment but accepting that this is your new and amazing life in a university abroad (away from your comfort zone) is a badge of honour.
As for students hesitant about pursuing health studies due to a lack of a science background, my advice is that you should not be so quick to put yourself down! By starting from scratch, you are able to learn things in intricate detail, picking up things that many people with a science background could be overlooking.