Students' Take: Reflections on Scholarly Project

By Pang Wen Xuan, Year 5 LKCMedicine student

Scholarly Project is part of the Year 4 curriculum in LKCMedicine that aims to expand our academic horizons, giving us an opportunity to reflect on our academic interests in our chosen topic together with the assigned mentor(s).

It is a unique feature of LKCMedicine’s curriculum whereby an amount of time is set aside to allow students to explore different domains of research that matches their interests under minimal guidance.

It encourages honing of time management skills, resilience in the face of setbacks, and the ability to navigate the complexities of research. It is nothing less than a comprehensive exploration of research, collaboration, and self-discovery.

The topic I chose, "Antibiotics Prophylaxis in Interventional Radiology – Review of Prescribing Practices," was driven by a confluence of personal interest in the intersection of medicine, innovation, and patient safety. Interventional radiology procedures often involve the use of invasive instruments and carry an inherent risk of infection.

My curiosity piqued as I contemplated the significance of antibiotic prophylaxis in reducing post-procedural infections. Moreover, discussions with several of my mentors revealed the potential for improving current prescribing practices in this field. Regular meetings with my principal mentor, a specialist in interventional radiology in SGH, were particularly valuable, as he offered a practical perspective on the topic and real-world application of research findings.

Later on, I had the honour of attending the MYSIR Annual Scientific Meeting 2022 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia with my batchmate Lee Kay Jin. Presenting in front of a diverse and knowledgeable audience, most of whom were established consultants in Interventional Radiology, was a nerve-wrecking yet exhilarating experience.

We eventually won the first and second positions for Best Oral Presentation award which was a testament to the collective effort and dedication of all our mentors. The recognition reaffirmed the importance of our research and its potential impact on clinical practice, motivating me to continue pursuing research endeavours in the future.

LKCMedicine's faculty and staff played an instrumental role in guiding me through the entire research process. They provided resources, including access to the medical library, databases, and statistical software, which were essential for a robust literature review and data analysis. We were also guided on how we could shape the research methodology and refine the research questions.

The School's commitment to supporting students in the international medical and research community was evident in the ease of applying for leave of absence during the school term and financial assistance provided for my trip to Malaysia. This significantly alleviated the financial burden associated with international travel and accommodation, even more so for my peers who opted for conferences out of Asia.

To my juniors embarking on their own Scholarly Project journey, I offer the following advice:  

Firstly, choose a topic that genuinely intrigues you. Research is a demanding endeavour, and your passion for the subject matter will sustain you through the inevitable challenges. Secondly, seek mentorship early on. Experienced researchers who share the same passion can provide invaluable guidance and help you navigate the complexities of research.

Thirdly, be patient and embrace the journey. Research can be a long and sometimes frustrating process, but the rewards of discovery and personal growth are well worth the effort.

Lastly, embrace opportunities for presentation and publication. Sharing your findings not only contributes to the academic community but also enhances your own learning and visibility.