Pursuing medicine with purpose

28 May 2025

by Chan Kit Vern
Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences
Star Education Fund recipient

1. Tell us about the Star Education Fund scholarship.

The Star Education Fund is a scholarship offered by a collaboration between The Star group and universities all over Malaysia. It offers full scholarships to young Malaysians looking to further their education in Malaysia. One can apply for their course of interest at different universities as long as it is offered by The Star. As for me, I applied for a scholarship for a Bachelor's in Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine at Monash University Malaysia.

2. In what ways do you believe this scholarship aligns with your academic and career aspirations?

It’s amazing that this scholarship is offered to the public, especially in the case of medicine programs. There are very limited scholarships offered for medicine programs, making it tough for us to pursue that course financially. Like every other aspiring medical student, I faced challenges in terms of financial stability when applying for the medicine program. Now, I feel entirely grateful to The Star Group and Monash University Malaysia for choosing me as one of their scholars. I believe I’m able to use this offer to its full advantage and make a difference in the healthcare industry by giving back to the people.

3. What motivated you to pursue this particular scholarship opportunity?

I believe my love for medicine and my responsibilities as the eldest child in my family made me long for success in obtaining this scholarship. I couldn’t ignore the fact that I have four other siblings hoping to pursue their education in the future. I’m aware that my parents are already struggling to pay off their debts and loans, so I couldn’t ask for more from them. The medicine program was always on the pricey side, and I’m already grateful for their support and motivation as I paved my way into this path. However, I didn’t let finances stop me; I figured out that obtaining a scholarship was the best way to relieve my parents’ stress and, at the same time, pursue my dream.

4. In what ways has the scholarship played a role in shaping your overall university experience?

First, I’m able to attend to my studies without having to worry about my tuition fees. My parents are the most important people in my life. My university experience would not have been complete without them. With my tuition covered, I’m able to entertain my parents and take them along with me on my medical journey, and it’s an entirely different feeling when they listen with ease and do not have to stress about my educational payments and loans.

Secondly, Monash University Malaysia is my dream university. But now that I’m here, it feels surreal because I’m studying in one of the world’s leading universities, with many facilities available to make the educational experience more interesting and interactive. Besides that, I think that as an individual in the medical field, I should be on my toes for anything that comes against the knowledge of even the most experienced people. That being said, I want to be part of research during my time at Monash University Malaysia, and given that it is a research-based institute, it is all the more reason for me to yearn and enjoy studying here.

5. Are there specific challenges or milestones that stand out as crucial to your growth?

Growing up in a large household has helped me develop a deep understanding of others. I've come to realise that everyone has a unique story and requires different kinds of attention. This mindset inspires me to become a doctor who empathises with each of my patients and strives to provide them with the best care possible. Throughout my journey in pursuing medicine, I have grown as an individual. The rigorous number of examinations I had to pass in order to gain admission to medical school, along with balancing extracurricular activities, has been challenging but rewarding. I recognise that this is only the beginning of my journey, but I have learned how to manage my emotions and time effectively to make the most of every learning experience. I’m still learning and hope to continue growing into a doctor that people can trust and rely on.

6. Drawing from your experience, what advice would you give to students considering applying for scholarships?

Just go for it. Apply for the scholarship and explain to the interviewers why it’s important to you. Be sure to explain why the course you are applying for means so much to you, especially since you’ll be competing with a thousand other candidates for the scholarship. This is the opportunity for the interviewers to see your sincerity and commitment to the course and the scholarship, and to understand how you plan to use it to make a difference.