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My Learning Journey – Piragathesh S/O Subramanian

Piragathesh


Name: Piragathesh S/O Subramanian
Name of institution: Republic Polytechnic
Course of study: Diploma in Biomedical Sciences

Why did you choose to pursue this course?
From an early age I have always been fascinated by the functions of the human body. My curiosity of the human body led me to study more about this remarkable, bio-organic machine which has a plethora of many diverse systems and intercalated working mechanisms that work seamlessly, surpassing any man-made object.

This complex combination of numerous systems in a human body – its structure, behaviour, functionalities of body mechanisms, atrophy, susceptibility to illnesses and cures available to counter prevailing exhibitory or dormant conditions – has spurred my passion for this branch of science.

How did you hear about Republic Polytechnic and its courses?
I came to know about Republic Polytechnic through O-level pamphlets and social media.

What is the best thing about studying at Republic Polytechnic?
As a polytechnic student, I had been inculcated with the values and principles of how to handle challenges and difficult situations. I had also been impressed upon the importance of perseverance so that I would go the extra mile to attain my objectives without losing sight of it.

I was very fortunate to have studied in an institution that encompasses the problem-based learning pedagogy, through which I have been able to identify and expand my potential. This learning experience has helped me to identify new solutions to current medical conditions.

To further amplify my learning curve on the medical field and its functions, I was given an opportunity to undertake an internship programme at the National University Hospital Surgical Centre and also at the Genome Institute of Singapore.

What has been the most interesting aspect of your learning journey?
I was able to attain a certain degree of excellence academically for which I was awarded many accolades, such as the Merit Awards for Academic Excellence for years 1 and 2, and the A*Star Polytechnic Science Award/Scholarship. This distinction made way for me to be inducted into the Role of Honours. The creme de la creme was the Board of Governors Gold Medal Award for the Most Outstanding Graduate of the Year.

On the non-academic side of things, I had the honour of being elected as the President of the 9th Republic Polytechnic Students Council. During my tenure, I spearheaded the inaugural Polytechnics Ministerial Dialogue Session in which our Minister for Education was the Guest-of-Honour.

As recognition of my accomplishments, I was awarded the Outstanding All-Rounder Students Award 2012 by the North-West CDC, a national award for outstanding performance in academics and co-curricular activities.

What advice do you have for students who wish to pursue a similar course?
Pursuing medicine can be tough and certain tasks might feel too huge to overcome. Therefore I suggest using the following steps as a guide:

  • Firstly, believe you can and you're halfway there.
  • You have to expect things of yourself before you can do them.
  • It always seems impossible until it's done.
  • Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.

If you can believe in yourself, then you have got the drive and passion to pursue your dreams.

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