Celebrating the Class of 2024!

By Kelvin Yap, Assistant Manager, Digital Content & Social Media

Medical school is a demanding journey that tests the resilience, dedication, and passion of every student. The recently graduated Class of 2024 at LKCMedicine faced these challenges head-on, emerging not only as competent doctors but as individuals deeply shaped by their experiences. This year’s graduates have weathered the storm of rigorous academic demands and the unprecedented disruptions brought by the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, they have triumphed, ready to embark on their medical careers with strength and determination.

We are honoured to have been part of their journey. As these graduates transition from students to healthcare professionals, they are expected to continue upholding the high standards of excellence, compassion, and integrity that define our community. The challenges they have overcome and the achievements they have garnered reflect their determination and the supportive environment fostered by LKCMedicine.

We look forward to witnessing the incredible contributions they will make to the healthcare field and society. Their journey has just begun, and the future holds endless possibilities. LKCMedicine will always be their home, and we hope they will stay connected with us, sharing their experiences and inspiring future generations of medical students.

On 27 July, LKCMedicine celebrated the Convocation of its seventh cohort at the Nanyang Auditorium, NTU, Singapore. The event was filled with pride and hope as 145 graduates from the Class of 2024 marked this milestone. This momentous occasion symbolises the beginning of their impactful journey in the healthcare sector, where they will apply their knowledge and skills to make a difference.

Awards and Accolades

At LKCMedicine, we take immense pride in the accomplishments of our students. The journey through medical school is arduous, but it is the support, camaraderie, and experiences that shape and strengthen them. The Class of 2024 stands as a testament to resilience and dedication. As they step into their roles as medical professionals, they carry with them the values, skills, and memories that will guide them in their careers.

We spoke with four outstanding graduates who earned top honours at this year’s Convocation. They shared their journeys, the moments that shaped them, and the people who supported them along the way.

Dr Wong Hoi Pong, Nicholas

Valedictorian of the Class of 2024

Nicholas reflects on his time at LKCMedicine with fondness and gratitude. “My five years in LKCMedicine were unforgettable. I’ve met various people, of whom I’m sure will thrive in whatever they choose to do in the future,” he shares. Nicholas held multiple leadership roles, including Programme Director of the LKCMedicine Students Medical Society, Year Representative, and captain of the NTU Singapore rugby team. These roles equipped him with essential skills that he brings into his workplace today. “Clear communication, good time management, and learning how to prioritise are skills that I developed during my time at LKCMedicine,” he noted. He cherishes the supportive and familial culture of LKCMedicine and looks forward to contributing to the School as an alumnus. “I am forever grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to contribute and give back to the School. This culture is one that I truly enjoyed and will miss.”

Dr Au Eong Tian Wei, Jonathan

Recipient of the Koh Boon Hwee Scholars Award

Jonathan balances his medical career with his passion for fencing. Representing Singapore at the 31st SEA Games and winning a historic gold medal in the Men’s Individual Foil event was a remarkable achievement. “It was undeniably challenging,” he admitted. “I was a third-year medical student transitioning to clinical years while preparing for the Games. The School was extremely supportive of my endeavours and made special arrangements such that I would not miss any postings and remain on track with my studies.” Jonathan reflects on the difficulties of transitioning to online learning during the pandemic. “Adapting to learning through a computer screen for a profession that possesses such a strong humanistic touch was difficult, and I nearly faced burnout during my second year of medical school. However, with the support of my friends and family, I was able to persevere and rediscover my joy for medicine when I returned to the wards for clinical studies.” He expresses immense gratitude towards the supportive faculty and his peers, who were a source of strength and encouragement throughout his journey.

Dr Adelia Jostanto

Recipient of the Chew Chin Hin Gold Medal for Outstanding Achievement in Clinical Medicine

Adelia reflects on her journey with deep appreciation. “I still remember the day I first visited LKCMedicine during the NTU Open House.” “That day, I took a long bus journey back home feeling elated and told my friend, who eventually became a classmate of mine in LKCMedicine, that I really hope I could get into the School.” Adelia highlights the importance of teamwork and communication, values instilled in her from the very beginning of her medical education. “The clinical communication sessions have been invaluable in my daily work. As a junior doctor, we can always rely on our seniors for guidance on the overall management plan for a patient. However, at work, nobody teaches us how to communicate with patients and co-workers effectively.” She credits her mentors and the structured practice sessions at LKCMedicine for her confidence and ability to handle challenging conversations. “These sessions have helped me have more fulfilling conversations with patients,” she shared, expressing gratitude for the continuous support from her family, friends, and mentors.

Dr Jiang Haowen

Recipient of the Lee Kuan Yew Gold Medal, Toh Kian Chui Gold Medal, and Low Cheng Hock Gold Medal for Outstanding Achievement in Surgery

Haowen reflects on his decision to study medicine, stating, “I was drawn to the science of medicine, and at the same time, I recognised the impact of a doctor’s words on patients at a time when they are most vulnerable. While I understood that being a physician is not easy, I felt it was extremely meaningful and that solidified my decision to study medicine.” Haowen highlights his most memorable experience at LKCMedicine, which was a six-week clinical elective in London. “Experiencing healthcare in a different setting and living independently with friends in a foreign country was eye-opening,” he shares. He also recounts the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, adapting to online lessons and the uncertainty it brought. “The final months leading up to my MBBS were the most influential, improving my knowledge and skills that prepared me as a doctor."

This celebration of the Class of 2024's achievements not only highlights their individual accomplishments but also reflects the collective spirit and excellence fostered at LKCMedicine. We are incredibly proud of every graduate and their unique journeys. Your perseverance, dedication, and resilience have brought you to this moment, and it is a testament to your unwavering commitment to excellence.

As you step into the world as healthcare professionals, know that your hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed. You have made it through challenging times and emerged stronger, ready to make a significant impact on the lives of others. The bonds you have formed and the experiences you have shared will always be a part of you, guiding you in your future endeavours.

Congratulations once again to the Class of 2024! We eagerly await the positive impact you will have on the world, confident that you will continue to uphold the values of compassion, integrity, and excellence that define LKCMedicine. Your journey is just beginning, and the future is bright.