Becoming an aerobics instructor in year 2001 had ignited my desire to become a Health Science professional. At that time, I was working as a tax accountant in one of the Big Four accounting firms. Teaching aerobics on a free-lance basis was a great way of exercising (relieving stress!) and earning some additional pocket-money. I also relished the fact that I was inspiring other ladies to adopt a healthy lifestyle, by exercising rather than dieting obsessively. At the same time, I befriended a fellow aerobics instructor who was a physiotherapist in National University Hospital. Well, to cut a long story short, she inspired me and the next thing I knew, I was sending in my application for the (then-called) Allied Health Scholarship, now known as NHG Health Sciences Scholarship.

Obtaining the scholarship was truly a crucial step in me becoming a physiotherapist. It provided me with the opportunity for a well-recognised education, since the course of study included a 3-year diploma in Nanyang Polytechnic and a 1-year degree conversion in University of Sydney. In addition, I knew that I would be starting my career at an established hospital – NUH, which was an ideal place to build up my foundation in clinical skills.

No doubt, studying smart and hard is part and parcel of the scholarship deal. But to have a good balance, playing hard is equally important. I’ve enjoyed my studies at NYP, blending it with a fair share of free-lance aerobics, organising a charity concert, participating in runs, mini-triathlons and interesting contests. One of the things I did for good fun was to take part in a Fastest Push-up contest organised by SPH in its 2005 Health Expo. Coming in third was a surprising bonus!

Now, studying and living in Sydney is a constant adventure for me. Studying with the Aussies is a new experience and I hope to be able to pick up their plus points, such as the ability to give a concise and fluent presentation. I’m mad about running long distance (since I’m not too good at fast running) and one of my dreams is to run (marathons or half-marathons) in different countries. So before I had stepped into Sydney, I had already signed up for the Sydney half-marathon. It was an awesome experience running across the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Beautiful views and great weather – I finished the race, very pleased with my personal best of 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Finding new interests is my way of battling homesickness. My second-hand bicycle is one of my most-satisfied buys here and it is a healthier substitute to a car for discovering Sydney and its surrounds. I think I will make a pretty good tour guide after my 1-year in Sydney. My other goal is to perfect my cooking and baking skills while studying in Sydney. Now, I can whip up a batch of muffins in 30 minutes. Fortunately, with the advancement of technology, it’s difficult to truly feel homesick since I can speak online or MSN my friends or even see my loved ones with a webcam.

To those who are interested in taking up the scholarship and making the most out of their studies and career, the major hurdle to cross is really the interviews, when you get the one and only opportunity to stand out from the rest. It’s important to be presentable and be prepared about the organisation and the scholarship. Being able to speak confidently, fluently and communicate your ideas across clearly would also be plus points.

As much as I’m enjoying my studies and life in Sydney, I’m also looking forward to beginning my career at NUH when I return to Singapore in September 2006. My degree education at University of Sydney has broadened my perspective on physiotherapists and our work. The university emphasises a good deal on evidence-based practice and the importance of having well-executed research to support our practice. Looking ahead, I hope to be able to become a well-rounded clinician at NUH, balancing my experience in dealing with different patient clientele and research in a specialised area of interest.