Accessible teaching

Why did you decide to study in the UK?
I had initially applied to universities in the UK as part of the application process for the Chevening Scholarship. I was also comfortable with studying in the UK as the language of instruction was in English and I was familiar with the place as I had my undergraduate training in Ireland and had visited the UK on multiple occasions. Also a Masters course in Bioethics/Medical Ethics was not available in Malaysia at the time.
Why London? Did you enjoy living in the city?
I chose London because of its accessibility in terms of direct flights from Malaysia, and also with multiple airports that link London to the rest of the world and Europe. This would make my travels more convenient.
What was the most challenging aspect of relocating to study?
I guess it was the transition of being a full-time student again after working for four years. I worked as a doctor, and not seeing patients or having patients under my care took a little adjusting to. Also, I needed to find a new routine for my spiritual life and social life which was quite challenging.
Why did you decide to do the MA in Bioethics and Medical Law at St Mary's?
It was a combination of factors really. I liked the fact that the course was run by the School of Education, Theology, and Leadership rather than a Medical or Law Faculty. The very warm and encouraging replies from Prof Trevor Stammers personally about enquiries on the programme also helped in my decision making.
How was studying in the UK different? Was there a difference in teaching styles?
It is hard to compare, as I had my undergraduate training in Ireland, and the styles were similar.
However, the postgraduate and undergraduate styles of teaching were very different, and I was left to a lot of self-initiated reading for the Masters, which is something that I enjoyed.
What was the best thing about your course?
The accessibility to the teaching staff, and the relationships that we developed. I was treated well, and respected as an equal.
I also liked how the Vice-Chancellor was very caring and approachable.
What are you doing now?
Upon my return to Malaysia last September, I was transferred to the Headquarters of the Ministry of Health Malaysia.
I am currently a Principal Assistant Director in the Medical Legislation and Globalisation branch of the Medical Practice division.
How has studying in the UK helped with your career?
I had taken the MA as a sabbatical from clinical work. It has increased my knowledge and widened my perspectives of ethical issues in medicine, and will influence my clinical practice.
The biggest benefit of having achieved a Distinction grade in the MA is that it has opened avenues for me to apply for a PhD anywhere in the world, as well as allowed me to be able to work overseas should the opportunity arise.
What advice would you give to Malaysians thinking about studying in the UK?
Studying abroad in the UK is not only an opportunity to learn from some of the best minds in the world, but also an opportunity to network and form relationships with the people you meet, as well as to contribute to your knowledge and experiences, as well as to inspire those whom you come into contact with.
To find out more about studying at St Mary's University, visit http://www.stmarys.ac.uk/international/countryinformation/malaysia.htm