Profile: Class of 2023 Prove their Mettle and Express their Gratitude

By Kaylyn Lim, Junior Writer

Medical school is not for the faint-hearted. Students are expected to endure a rigorous curriculum, absorb new and complex information, and juggle their extra-curricular activities. Coupled with the vicissitudes of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Class of 2023 experienced all of this and more! Yet, the sixth cohort of LKCMedicine students emerged stronger and are ready to embark on their medical careers. 

The LKCMedicine spoke with three students, who earned top honours at this year's Convocation, about the people and moments that helped them remain steadfast in the face of challenges.

Dr Lim Jun Heng, awarded both the Anthony SC Teo – Gordon Johnson Gold Medal and the Lee Kuan Yew Gold Medal, shared that his patients are his inspiration in becoming a better doctor.

“Medicine has always been about the people! During the clinical years, we often talk to patients and examine them to learn from their clinical presentation,” he effused. “Many were so kind and generous to share about their condition despite enduring their discomfort and suffering, in hopes that we become better doctors and help more people.”

Sharing that the five years he spent in LKCMedicine were filled with wonderful moments for him, he recalled the MBBS study break being one of the most stressful times he has faced. It was the support of his fellow students that helped him through.

“We formed groups to practise, teach and critique each other during study breaks. Many of us studied till late, and some took the initiative to buy dinner for the rest of us. The camaraderie makes it a fond memory to look back on,” he recalled. 

Feeling incredibly honoured to receive the Anthony SC Teo - Gordon Johnson Gold Medal and Lee Kuan Yew Gold Medal, Dr Lim said, “It would not have been possible without, first and foremost, the unwavering support from my family. This award is also dedicated to my friends and teammates from years one to five, my tutors, and the patients whom I have learnt so much from.” 

“Five years of medical school felt very daunting at the start and came with its own share of difficult times, but I feel very grateful and fortunate to be recognised by the School for my efforts,” he said.

Dr Kimberly Tan, recipient of the Chee Yam Cheng Gold Medal in Professionalism, Ethics, Law, Leadership and Safety (PELLS), dedicated her award to her paternal grandfather.

“He was the most supportive of my desire to do medicine from a young age. Although he did not get to witness me entering medical school, I am sure he would be very proud of who I have become now,” she remarked. 

Looking back on the many life-changing moments she has had as a medical student, Dr Tan shared that the first time she performed CPR on a patient during her posting left a lasting impact on her. “It was adrenaline-rushing and a critical situation that required quick thinking and decisive action,” she explained. “Despite the pressure, being able to perform CPR effectively and contribute to the patient's resuscitation was incredibly rewarding.”

Equally significant were the opportunities to work together with other doctors and nurses. “It solidified my understanding of the importance of teamwork, communication, and remaining composed in high-stress situations,” she commented. 

As for being presented an award in PELLS, Dr Tan noted that PELLS as a topic is still very multi-layered and complex, even after five years of medical school. “I feel very honoured to have received this award. What makes PELLS unique is that it is both universally applicable to every patient, but also has to be specially tailored for each patient we provide care for.” 

She added, “This award serves as a reminder to uphold the values I have learnt in my everyday practice of medicine.”

For Dr Chia Tze Hao receiving the Low Cheng Hock Gold Medal for Outstanding Achievement in Surgery is a reminder that there is always room for him to improve. This is particularly timely as he has started working as a House Officer. 

“As Professor Low Cheng Hock often said in his memorable lectures: the anatomy of today is the surgery of tomorrow,” he shared. 

“I am incredibly honoured and humbled to receive this award! This really goes out to all the amazing tutors, seniors and peers that I had the privilege of learning from,” Dr Chia added.

“I would like to dedicate this award to my family and friends who have been such a strong source of support throughout medical school, especially through the gruelling process of MBBS. Of course, a big shout-out goes to the amazing tutors in LKCMedicine for taking the time to go through the complexities of medicine!”

For his juniors, Dr Chia shared a message of encouragement, “Medical school is a long journey - but it is also just the start. It may all seem very daunting now, but it is amazing how far you can come in five short years!”