Koay Hong Xin, A189444, 8 July 2024.

2. What have you done?

In week 1, I focused on making my final preparations before departing to China for my elective posting. This includes liaising with the person in charge (PIC) from SAHZU, China for my orientation and accommodation throughout my attachment over there, packing my luggage, and ensuring I have all the stuff needed in the hospital. As this is my first time travelling alone to another country, I have to familiarise myself with almost everything out there, ranging from small stuff like overseas SIM cards and transportation to important things like required documents and procedures to pass immigration and enter international flights. On 27th June 2024, I flew to Kuala Lumpur from Penang and stayed overnight at the capsule hotel in KLIA 1 as my flight to Hangzhou, China, was at 8 am on the next day. On 28th June, I arrived at Hangzhou safely. Thank god that everything went smoothly and I was brought to my hostel by the PIC from SAHZU. She was so nice and friendly and subsequently, I was added to a group chat with my tutor on WeChat that served as our communication platform.

3. Points to remember from week 1!

⁃ Making preparations beforehand is indeed important as it eases my entire journey from departure to arrival in China.

⁃ Be brave and do not be shy to ask whenever you are alone out there so that you can get the answer you want and won’t get lost easily.

⁃ Taking the first step might seem difficult but once you step out, you will realise that actually, things are not as complicated as we expected. Trust yourself!

4. Your feelings & thoughts.

I felt very excited as it was my first time travelling abroad on my own and a solo trip was something that I had been craving for years. Furthermore, this was my first time having an opportunity to attach to an overseas hospital and I am really looking forward to this exposure. All these excitement eventually drove me to full motivation and commitment in doing my preparation for the visit. However, I did feel insecure occasionally throughout the way as this was my first time travelling alone and I had to be independent enough to deal with the entire process on my own without any previous experience. Things that worried me the most were embarking on an international plane, and passing immigration and security checks as I did not have the chance to do it alone before. However, I understand that this is the process of growth and I truly enjoy this opportunity of growing as a real adult.

5. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

As mentioned above, since this was my first time travelling abroad alone, I had to prepare for all aspects of this journey on my own. In making preparations, there was certain information that I was not able to obtain online, especially some small pieces of information that were not commonly available e.g., the availability of a SIM card retail store in the airport terminal that I will be landing. Fortunately, I managed to deal with these by asking some of my friends in China and finding a proper way to obtain more detailed information via the Internet. Besides, there were instances when I was confused after being bombarded with different information from different online sources on the same topic. These were the times when I applied my critical thinking skills to analyse, compare, and subsequently made my final decision on trusting information from sources that were reliable.

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far.

Exciting and happy.

7. Your plan for next week. (Week 2)

Make sure that I familiarise myself with the hospital and do not be shy in asking questions to clear our doubts. Take the chance to ask questions and learn from doctors in China.

Matrics Number: A188948

Date: 9 July 2024

2) What have you done?

I arrive at Oujda, Morocco at the 28th of June 2024, which is a few days before my clinical clerkship started. I was picked up by the local committees of IFMSA Morocco (Oujda) and they brought me around in a car and introduced the city of Oujda. Checked in at the students apartment and settled down. I was the first exchange student to arrive in Oujda and throughout the next few days, other exchange students settled in as well. 1 July 2024, first day of clerkship. I was brought to Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Mohammed VI, Oujda, and was introduced to one of the Professor in Traumatology Department, I was assigned to a team of resident doctors and they brought me around the hospital. Knowing where is the consultation room, operation theater as well as the emergency department, I was prepared to begin my clerkship. For the rest of the week, I attended clerkship from 8am till 12pm. I've got the chance to observe a few interesting procedures, including wound management for infected wounds, bandage replacement, and consultation sessions. Other than activities in the hospital, the local committees utilize the time we have after the clerkship to organize various social programs including cafe hopping, padel night (a type of sport), and small gatherings. They even organized a trip to a nearby beach town called Saidia to enjoy the weekend by the beach. A very fun and fulfilling first week.

3) Points to Remember (Week 1)

• Local language spoken: Arab and French

• Language used in medical setting: French

• People here greet each other by touching faces left and right or shaking hands

• Moroccans LOVE their culture and history

• Each city has sort of a different "colour code", for example most buildings in Oujda are painted beige, in another town called Chefchaouen, buildings are painted blue etc

• Medical supplies such as soap and local anesthesia is limited in the hospital, and they are trying to make a change to the situation

• Medical students study for 7 years (including their internship), but recently their government wanted to shorter it into 6 years, which causes dissatisfaction among medical students affected by the new policy proposed. Thus, an open ended strike has been going on for approximately 7 months (started on December 2023) and Y1 to Y5 students all around Morocco (not just Oujda) is not attending classes until heir government do something about it.

• A strike among healthcare workers (doctors, nurses etc.) will be starting next week as well, in hope to improve the working environment.

  
  

4) Feelings and Thoughts + 5) Difficulties / Concerns

• Happy and Glad: The committees and exchange students are very friendly and open minded, a lot of new knowledge and perspective has been acquired through chatting with them.

• A little homesick: It didnt occur to me until the middle of this week, when i realised how far i an from my home country (11,533km), as much as i love the food here i cant help but to miss eating rice hahahha (main carbs used here is the bread). But the other exchange students here who are more experienced in joining exchanges are really nice and they assure me that everyone feels that way during their firste exchange. I was glad to be able to know them through this exchange.

• Confused: Sometimes i feel kinda confused in the hospital, firstly its because its an all new environment, second, 95 percent of patients don't speak English at all, even most of the healthcare workers don't speak English fluently, thus situation can be kind of confusing at times. But luckily, i met a really nice 6th year medical student who guided me and translate important information to me. Hopefully everything gets better next week.

  
  

6) 2 words to describe elective progress so far

• New

• Fun

  
  

7) Plan for week 2

• Mix more and try to interact more with the doctors as well as medical students in the hospital

• Learn some basic Arabic / French words used here

• Discover more of local delicacies such as Tagine, Cous Cous

• Prepare for the National Food and Drinks Party (NFDP), where incomings and local committees will prepare food that they usually eat to share it with everyone

1. Your name, matric number, date

Name: V N Nuvaira Tasneem

Matric Number: A185408

Date: 28 June 2024

2. What have you done?

This week went by quite smoothly as I shadowed my supervisor either at the hernia clinic or at the OT though there were some hiccups. It was quite difficult to adapt to the new hospital setting at first, however with the help of the medical students who were also placed under the Hernia team and also doctors walking around, I managed to get to the right place and follow ward rounds. 

My first day went by at the clinic as I shadowed my supervisor, who is a hernia specialist, as he attended to different patients with different types of hernia presentations. From direct, indirect inguinal hernia, to umbilical hernia to incisional hernia, I managed to see a variety of hernia presentations. I also had the chance to palpate some of the patients to find the defect in the abdominal wall and feel for a cough impulse under the supervision of my doctor. This allowed me to brush up on my basic knowledge I learnt during Surgery posting such as history taking and steps to performing a proper hernia examination. I also managed to observe the way my doctor communicated with his patients and family members. He always made sure to have proper eye contact with his post-op patients and always included their family members in the conversation. 

Subsequently, I had the chance to enter into OT and observe multiple hernia repair surgical procedures being done on patients. From open mesh repair of right inguinal hernia to laparoscopic repair, it was quite fascinating how the surgeons relentlessly worked together as a team to make their patients’ lives better. 

While being part of the Hernia team, I also made friends with the third year medical students of NUS and got to know more about the medical curriculum in Singapore. During ward rounds, I followed Zhenyi, one of the third year students, to the ward as we both helped to prepare a tray of essential wound dressing materials before ward round. I felt inspired by Zhenyi, that as a medical student, in addition to following ward rounds, we can also take initiative to help the doctors with small tasks which is also good practical learning before becoming a houseman. 

3. Points to remember from week 1!

• Never be afraid to ask for help

• Never forget your basics and keep revising

• Be proactive 
  

4. Your feelings & thoughts

• Elated: able to learn a lot through the clinic sessions and OT experiences

• Disheartened: keep getting lost around the hospital (hopefully things get better next week)

  
  

5. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

Firstly, I found it quite challenging to adapt to the new hospital setting. After being used to getting around HUKM, being put in a totally different hospital which I was not familiar with, was very challenging. It was hard navigating around the hospital especially when my supervisor would ask me to report at certain places and I had to ask the doctors and medical students who were walking around for help. Fortunately, all of the people I approached for help were kind enough to give me directions to the right place which made my life much easier at NUH. However, there were times in which I would report late for ward rounds as I lost my way but my supervisor was very understanding.

Secondly, I had to be independent in my learning and had to seek learning opportunities on my own. Most of the time, my supervisor would be very busy during ward rounds and attending to patients hence he did not have much time to be teaching me personally. I was initially quite clueless as to how to make most of my elective posting, however as time went by, I managed to get the hang of it. My daily routine everyday would be to join ward rounds in the morning and follow my supervisor for the rest of the day. I would often read up on the cases before attending ward rounds to gain a better understanding of the patients and also do some research about the surgery procedure before entering the OT. This came in useful as I was able to ask questions based on my reading to my supervisor.

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far

• Exciting 

• Challenging
  

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2)

• To attend more OT sessions 

• Gain some hands-on experiences at the OT 

Name: Lai Kam Hoong

Matric Number: A189642

Date: 8 July 2024

2. What have you done?

On July 1st, I began my elective posting at PUMCH. I received a warm welcome from the staff in the Department of Education, who briefed us on the hospital's history, facilities, and departments. They also gave us a tour along with other exchange students. Following the orientation, I met my supervisor and started my elective in the Department of General Surgery, specifically assigned to the thyroid and pancreatic team. During the first week, I attended my supervisor's clinic and observed a variety of thyroid and pancreatic cases. Every morning, I participated in our team handovers and ward rounds. I also had the opportunity to attend family meetings, where the doctor explained the risks and procedures of upcoming surgeries to patients and their families to obtain informed consent. (For complicated surgery, the meeting even requires the presence of a lawyer and notary public). This week, our team primarily focused on thyroid surgeries. I observed several procedures, such as open total thyroidectomy and open hemithyroidectomy. I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to scrub in and assist in 2 thyroid surgeries. I deeply appreciated the opportunity as it was my first experience in an operating theatre. Additionally, I received a book containing a collection of exemplary case histories written by the doctors from PUMCH. I also shadowed a resident doctor, learned how they clerk a patient, and learned their way of writing patient admission history in the system.

3. Points to remember from week 1!

• Always be prepared for any shortcomings. Keep calm, don’t panic and think of the best solution.

• Don’t be shy to ask around when we are unsure of something. Be brave and step out of our comfort zone and talk to the strangers whenever we need help.

• Being yourself comfortably is very helpful in the early stages of getting to know each other.

4. Your feelings & thoughts

Undertaking my elective abroad has been a dream come true. I feel a deep sense of fulfilment every time I finish a day at the hospital. The positive vibes and relaxed working environment make it an incredibly enjoyable experience. At the same time, I also recognize that there is always so much to learn. During my first time scrubbing in and assisting in a surgery, I felt a mix of cluelessness and nervousness. However, the doctors here are very kind and patient. They took the time to teach me how to properly wash my hands, the correct way to gown, and the sterile principle during surgery. I am truly grateful for all the kindness and assistance I've received from everyone I've met here.

5. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

One of the challenges I faced was navigating the hospital. The hospital compound is quite large with many entrances, and I have a poor sense of direction. On my first day, I got lost and couldn't find the place to register myself. Fortunately, I seek help and ask people and staff around the hospital. I try to recognise and pay attention to the signboards to avoid getting lost again.

Another difficulty that I faced is understanding Chinese medical terminology. The hospital in China primarily uses Chinese for patient histories and communication. Although I can communicate in Mandarin, I had never learned medical terminology in Chinese. I explained my situation to the drs and they are aware of this.  Since then, they are helpful and translating and explaining the medical terms in English to me. They even lent me a Chinese medical book to help improve my understanding.

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far

• Fulfilling

• Exciting

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2)

• Interact more with the doctors and medical students from China and make new friends.

• Learn more about the common thyroid and pancreatic diseases in China.

• Gain more hands-on experience with procedures in the ward and operating theatre.

Name: Seenivasan Aparrna

Matric No.: A185410

Date: 28 July 2024

2. What have you done?

The preparation for the elective posting was a 6 month haul. There were quite a number of documents to prepare, some of which took some time. Singapore had some stringent requirements in place, such as infection control certification, mask fitting, vaccinations etc. These were put in place so that we students are well prepared if and when another outbreak arises. Some patience and guidance from seniors who have undergone the same process helped ease the process. 

After preparing and submitting the necessary documents, it was a long wait before the offer came in. I was immensely relieved when I finally received the offer.

I left for Singapore as soon as the exams for my final posting ended. From the time I reached Singapore, I had around a month before the posting began. Thus I started spending some time each day revisiting my notes from the Surgery posting, as I did not want to have forgotten all that I had learnt by the time the posting started. Around a week before the start of my elective, I received an email from NUH with important information regarding the posting. Furthermore, I had to complete some quizzes on patient data protection as well as general safety measures in NUH. An online meeting was also held a few days before the posting to reiterate important information and to clarify any doubts we had.

The preparation process, although long, was a good experience by itself.

3. Points to remember from week 1!

Plan ahead of time and plan every course of your action

Always be prepared for setbacks and bounce back!

4. Your feelings & thoughts 

I was initially stressed as the process was getting delayed at every stage, and nothing was under my control. However, I understood that that is the very reason why I do not have to stress myself over the delay. I remained hopeful and eventually everything fell into place.

5. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

The delay during each stage of the document preparation process was concerning. To cope with that concern, I told myself that I cannot change anything that is not under my control. I reassured myself and trusted the process.

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far

Suspenseful yet hopeful

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2)

I hope to broaden my knowledge on pediatric surgery and make the most out of this opportunity!

Name: Bhelvinder Singh A/L Surinder Singh

Matric Number: A190104

Date: 6/8/2024

2. What have you done?

• Firstly, I completed the online registration which includes completing some particulars, reading handbooks and completing quizzes. I also had to attend a short briefing session via Zoom organised by the staff of the National University of Singapore (NUS) Medicine Electives Team.

• Besides, I also changed some money to Singaporean currency for later use in Singapore. It was interesting to see that Singapore had a $2 note and their $1 is not in the form of a note but is instead a coin.

• I packed my luggage taking care to pack light by bringing essential items only. This is to ensure that I adhere to the designated weight limit imposed on check-in luggage to avoid paying additional fees. I decided to bring along a small backpack which I thought would come in handy for me to keep small items especially when I go sightseeing in Singapore.

• Other than that, I packed my passport and submitted the Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC) 3 days before the day of my arrival as requested to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA).

• In addition, I was also informed through email that the neurosurgeon assigned to be my supervisor for my elective posting at NUH is Dr. Nivedh. I had to contact him via WhatsApp to introduce myself and ask him about the details of our meeting on my first day at NUH.

• Before the day of departure, I checked to make sure I have all the necessary travel documents and went to sleep earlier than usual to ensure that I was well-rested for the next day.

• On the day of departure, I made sure to arrive 3 hours earlier at Terminal 2 of the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) as suggested by an online article to avoid any delays caused by traffic congestion or the long lines at the airport. Upon arrival, I weighed my luggage to make sure it had not exceeded the designated weight limit. Then, I wrapped my luggage with some plastic film. I also completed the check-in and printed my boarding pass. After that, I checked in my luggage and cleared immigration.

• I arrived in Singapore, cleared immigration and collected my luggage. I bought a local SIM card and then headed to the hostel which I had previously booked. I checked into the hostel and was shown to my room where I proceeded to unpack my belongings.

3. Points to remember from phase 1!

• The preparations for travelling overseas can be rather complex and overwhelming especially for people doing so for the first time, like myself in this instance. However, thorough and well-planned preparations are vital to ensure a safe and smooth journey.

4. Your feelings & thoughts

• I feel elated at having been given the opportunity to go on this clinical elective which I consider to be a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

• I believe that this experience will allow me to obtain more knowledge, gain new experiences, make new friends and brush up my clinical skills. This experience would also provide me with a comprehensive look into the healthcare system in Singapore and give me some early exposure to the field of neurosurgery.

• In addition, I also get the chance to take a breather from my medical school journey and visit the wonderful attractions that Singapore has to offer.

5. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

• Since this was the first time I was travelling overseas, I discussed with family members, read online articles and watched videos on the various checkpoints at KLIA as well as the necessary steps that I have to complete to ensure that I will be able to board the flight smoothly and arrive at Changi Airport without a hitch. I also double checked to make sure I have the necessary documents with me.

• I was worried that my luggage might exceed the designated weight limit since I did not have a scale at home to weigh my luggage. However, I was able to so at the airport before checking in the luggage and to my relief, the luggage did not exceed the weight limit.

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far

• Enthusiastic

• Anxious

7. Your plan for next phase (Phase 2)

• Attend orientation

• Meet supervisor

• Visit tourist attractions

NAME: SERENA SEET SU YUIN

MATRIC NUMBER: A189015

DATE:12/8/2024

2. What have you done?

The phase 1 (preparation) of my elective posting began 6 months prior to August. I started researching the things I wish to do for my elective posting. There were so many items on my list like, picking up on a new talent ie. diving or horse riding. I took the time to properly think and decide on my elective of choice. I had a heavy interest in Surgery back then, hence I decided to immerse myself in an environment where I could be exposed to Surgery in its entirety. I then applied for General Surgery in the NUS Clinical Electives Program for Overseas Students and was gladly accepted into all my General Surgery choices (Vascular (NUH), Upper GI (NUH), Surgery In Khoo Teck Puat and Hepato-Pancreato Biliary (HPB) (NUH) ). I then chose HPB (NUH) as my team of choice! This required a lot of decision making and critical thinking. I decided to do what is beneficial for me in the future; that is to get enough experience in the field I choose to specialise in in the future. I started my preparation by preparing all the needed documents ie.

1. Vaccination certificate

2. Passport

3. Letter of good standing from my institution, UKM

4. Letter of Acceptance from NUS

5. Travel insurance, and application.

6. I later on did blood serology tests, mask fitting, and Infection Control Training with a group of friends who were going for the same elective posting.

As the elective posting got nearer, I started reading up on the HPB. I did not want to go in blind. I then packed my luggage. I traveled to Singapore by car 2 days prior to the commencement of the elective posting.

I settled in Singapore by noon. I then took several routes to NUH to determine the most efficient way to get myself to and from the hospital daily.

Prior to the start of my posting, I was emailed with 3 quizzes to complete:

1. A health declaration

2. Data and security governance

3. Cybersecurity.

   
   

   I was also instructed to attend an online briefing by NUS on the 1st of August 2024 via Zoom. I also contacted my assigned supervisors prior to starting my posting to discuss where and when to meet them!

On the 5th of August 2024, I was mask-fitted once again and received my NUS/NUH identity card.

3. Points to remember from week 1 (Phase 1)!

All in all, I learnt that good planning is indeed rewarding. It made my trip here in Singapore much smoother and more enjoyable. I also learnt that Singapore takes cybersecurity very seriously as all patient’s data are digitalised!

4. Your feelings & thoughts

I was indeed very excited to begin my posting here in NUS.I am looking forward to I am very grateful that I've met very helpful people along the way in preparation for the elective posting. Dr. Azura, the Infectious Disease Head Nurse, and Mr. Clarence were of big help to me and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank them. I was also intrigued by how big NUH was!

5. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

Document preparation was rather smooth!

I had some difficulties navigating my way around the hospital at the very beginning. The orientation held around the premises of NUH was rather superficial. Thankfully, I was able to get use to the layout of NUH through asking and looking for signages! I was able to cope with it by exploring NUH a few days earlier too!

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far.

Adventurous

Independence

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2)

I plan to meet my supervisors for classes scheduled and shadow them as often as possible! Since my posting only spanned 2 weeks, I hope to make the most out of it.

Name: WONG JIAN CONG

Matric Number: A188021

Date: 5th August 2024

2) What have you done?

A few months before the start of my elective posting, I contacted some seniors who did their elective posting at Singapore to ask regarding their journey in doing elective posting, as well as I did some research on which hospital I am going to attach to for the following 2 weeks, in which I take into account factors like distance travel, accommodation, and what type of department is being offered.

After that, I have prepared all related documentation to apply for my elective posting, which includes an infectious control training certificate, a letter of good standing, and a personal protective equipment certificate. Me and a group of friends had undergone a mask fitting session with Mr. Clarence, who is a science officer, who gave us a briefing on types of N95 masks and performed a mask fitting check on us.

I also did some research on where and what type of accommodation I will be staying for the next two weeks, in which I take into account factors like pricing and distance travel back and forth from my accommodation to the hospital.

Before I travel to Singapore, I did apply for an international visa card, which allows me to perform contactless payments, and I also exchanged some Malaysian Ringgit currency into Singapore dollars.

Prior to my ride to Singapore, I had book a bus ticket and packed all my necessities like clothing which includes my UKM scrubs, personal hygiene stuff as well as all important documentations that I need to bring to Singapore.

3)Points to remember

Since it was my first time traveling alone, I realized that I have to do my research before traveling to ensure my journey to Singapore goes smoothly, and I have to take into account factors when it comes to choosing a hospital, accommodation, and mode of transport.

4) Your feeling and Thought

I was feeling nervous at first since it is my first time traveling alone for the next 2 weeks because I have to prepare everything on my own. However, at the same time, I felt excited because I am able to spend the following 2 weeks learning about Singapore healthcare systems and I am about to gain new knowledge in the department that I will attach to in NUH hospital.

5) Any difficulties and concern?

How did you cope?

At first, I was worried about getting my application rejected since my senior did mention that not all students will be accepted, and at the same time, not all hospitals offer elective posting. Hence, I was quite concerned as the application took a few months and the application process was quite a lot and strict. Hence, what I did was ensure every one of my documents that I submitted were in the correct format, and because there were quite a few students that were applying to Singapore as well, I applied earlier when the application was opened.

Beside that, it will be my first time traveling alone, and I felt nervous because the moment I step into Singapore, I have to be dependent on myself. Hence, I told myself to enjoy the journey and have fun as much as possible.

6) Two words to describe progress

a) Excited

b) Nerve wracking

7) Your plan for next week

For the first week, I plan to contact my supervisor, who I will be attaching to for the next 2 weeks, as well as get familiar with the route and how I will be traveling back and forth to the hospital. More than that, I will be planning on what goals I would love to achieve throughout my elective posting to ensure I maximize my time in the upcoming 2 weeks.

STAY TUNED FOR MY WEEK 1 PADLET POST GUYSS !

Woong Jia Hui

A190103

13 August 2024 

2. What have you done?

I spent this week preparing thoroughly for my elective posting at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital in Singapore. I'll be joining the Paediatrics Haematology-Oncology team for two weeks. 

Before heading overseas, I took time to pack my luggage and gather essential items like my scrubs, lab coat, stethoscope, N95 masks, and safety goggles. I also completed the MyICA application required for entry into Singapore.

While awaiting departure, I studied Paediatrics using the Year 4 Study Guide as my main reference to prepare myself as I have not went through Paediatrics posting in UKM. Four days before my flight, I attended an online orientation organized by the NUS Medicine Electives team for incoming students joining the Clinical Electives Programme for Overseas Visiting Students.

On July 26, 2024, I arrived at Changi Airport with my mother and a friend, who is also doing his electives in Singapore. Fortunately, a relative graciously offered to host me throughout my two-week elective posting, saving me accommodation costs.

Lastly, I took the opportunity to acquaint myself with Singapore's public transport system and visited the hospital a day before starting my elective posting.

3. Points to remember from week 1!

• The public transport system in Singapore is very developed compared to Malaysia and people there rely on buses and MRT to get anywhere. It is considered a luxury to own a car as there are many taxes to be paid annually.

• Everyone must clean their tables and take their trays to a designated area after finishing their meal to ensure the cleanliness of the eating premises. I think this is something we should learn from the Singaporeans and this act should be practiced by more people in Malaysia.

• Singaporeans live a very fast-paced life. Many elderly citizens in their seventies or eighties are hired as cleaners in food courts and even in the airport.

4. Your feelings & thoughts 

I feel anxious prior to starting my elective posting because I have no experience in Paediatrics. On the other hand, I feel very excited as I have always been interested in this specialty and wish to observe how Singaporean doctors work. I'm eager to immerse myself in a new environment, learn from experienced professionals, and gain hands-on experience in Paediatrics before staring my fourth year in medical school.

Overall, the anticipation of growth and learning outweighs any nervousness, and I'm looking forward to the challenges and experiences that lie ahead.

5. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

I felt lonely because I was the only person from UKM attaching to KK Hospital and I had no close friends or family with me most of the time, but I took this as an opportunity to become more independent. I also plan to network with my Singaporean colleagues to broaden my horizons and obtain more information about the working environment and  lifestyle there.

The prices of items in Singapore are much more expensive compared to Malaysia so I had to budget wisely and only spend money on necessary items.

I found it difficult to travel around with public transport because I am used to driving everywhere in Malaysia. I realised it took me a lot longer to get everywhere because I spent a lot of time waiting for the correct buses, and public transport can get extremely crowded during peak hours. Luckily, I managed to adapt to the public transport system after a few days and things went smoother.

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far

Fresh start

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2)

Contact my supervisor, Dr. Soh Shui Yen (Head of Paediatrics Haematology-Oncology Unit in KK Hospital) and introduce myself.

Make sure I have enough money in my EZ-Link card to ensure I have enough money at all times while traveling. 

Do some research on interesting places to visit in Singapore and discuss with my friends on where we should visit during our free time.

Be open-minded and smile more!

Lee Jun Jie

A187968

26.07.2024

2. What have you done?

Before my departure, I prepared my luggage, ensuring I had all essential items packed. After checking in for my flights, I gathered and organized all necessary travel documents, including my passport, N95 mask, cash, and medical certificates. I attended the online orientation for my elective posting to understand the procedures and expectations clearly. Subsequently, I made the required payment for the elective posting and completed the MYICA form three days before my flight. On 26/07/2024, I arrived at Changi Airport. Once in Singapore, I familiarized myself with the local transport system to easily navigate my way to the hospital.

3. Points to remember from week 1!

• No eating or drinking in the public transport.

• I noticed that some seats on the bus are equipped with a USB port for passengers who might want to recharge their mobile phones at any time.

• All the plates and trays need to return to the appointed spots after eating.

4. Your feelings & thoughts

I am really excited for my upcoming elective posting in Singapore. The chance to learn from top professionals and gain valuable experience in a new medical setting is thrilling.

I’m also looking forward to living in Singapore, known for its modern and clean cityscape. Exploring its advanced facilities and enjoying the well-kept public spaces will be amazing. The combination of a modern infrastructure and a commitment to cleanliness makes me even more eager for this experience.

5. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

It takes almost 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Khoo Teck Puat Hospital from my house using public transport. Because of this, I need to get ready earlier to ensure I arrive at the hospital on time.

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far

• Excited

• Worried

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2)

I will begin my first day of my elective posting at Khoo Teck Puat Hospital by contacting the supervisor assigned to me under the Emergency Surgery Acute Trauma (ESAT) department.