Yong Wai Lee

Course: Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours), 2019
Nationality: Malaysian
Current role: Senior Medical Science Liaison, ZUELLIG THERAPEUTICS

Why did you choose to study Pharmacy?

I was drawn towards health sciences since a very young age, probably because I was always ill when I was younger and the frequent visits to the paediatrician inspired me to be somebody that is well respected in society and able to help others live a better and healthier life. Finally, during my college years, I decided to pursue a pharmacy degree as I found it a very versatile degree. Having this degree allows me to venture into various industries including healthcare, business or a blend of both, which is what I am currently doing.

How have your studies helped to prepare you for the working world?

The scientific knowledge on various diseases and pharmaceuticals is definitely a big advantage in my current role as I am able to understand information better and communicate on the same level with my HCP.

Another thing that is really helpful which I believe is unique to Monash Malaysia is active learning. This is where students self-study before attending tutorials or workshops. I have to admit it was a difficult transition from high school and college, but now in the working world, I am expected to self-develop on the latest medical knowledge, clinical guidelines and the competitive landscape in order to excel in what I do.

Did you participate in any student activities or opportunities?

I was the President of the Monash University Pharmacy Society (MUPhaS). We organised campus-wide health campaigns in collaboration with other parties, for example, MUM Counselling’s Health & Wellness Services. We’ve also organised multiple School of Pharmacy camps with the Monash University Student Association. Last but not least, we worked closely with the School of Pharmacy to run our annual orientation week.

Did you go for any internships or work placements?

During my third and fourth years, I went for multiple clinical attachments in Hospital Sultanah Aminah, Hospital Tengku Ampuan Rahimah, Klinik Kesihatan Jeram and Caring Pharmacy Atria Shopping Gallery. These attachments gave me real-life experience and exposure as a pharmacist working in a government hospital, government clinic and community pharmacy. Of course, these attachments also strengthened my clinical knowledge.

Furthermore, these various attachments allowed me to partially step into the working world and tap into the experiences and insights of the pharmacists that are already working in different settings. This gave me some ideas and expectations of the roles, responsibilities and working environment of a pharmacist in these settings.

What did you enjoy most about your student life?

The best part was it being close to home. Other than that, I particularly liked the campus life where there were lots of activities, clubs and societies to join. In addition to MUPhaS, I was also an active member of the Monash Ultimate Frisbee Club and Monash First Aiders Bureau. Besides meeting people outside of pharmacy school and making new friends, these activities also allowed me to have a more balanced, fun and memorable university life.

What is the difference you’d like to make?

I would like to keep contributing and continue playing a role in making life-changing medications more accessible for all.