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International MB ChB student profile: Kar Wei

Kar Wei is a final year MB ChB student from Malaysia who transferred to Warwick from the International Medical University with a degree in Biomedical Sciences. Before joining the course she gained experience working in a pharmacy and conducted research exploring how certain conjugates could be used for drug development in conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Kar Wei
Why did you decide to study medicine?

My family has an extensive medical history, which played a big role in shaping my interest in medicine. On my mother’s side, nearly all 10 of her siblings, including herself, have been affected by cardiovascular diseases such as atrial fibrillation, while my father’s side has a history of diabetes. Both sides also have a history of hypertension.

Growing up, I was a very curious child, eager to understand why these conditions affected my family and how I could prevent them from impacting me. A defining moment came when my late uncle was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer. Despite never smoking, he developed the disease, which left me with many unanswered questions about how and why it happened. This curiosity and desire to understand complex medical conditions were the driving forces behind my decision to pursue a career in medicine.

Why did you choose Warwick Medical School?

I chose Warwick Medical School because it is a postgraduate programme, which meant I would be surrounded by peers who are likely older, with diverse work experiences and perspectives. Many of them already have families, which adds another layer of responsibility to their studies. Medicine is a never-ending field where learning continues throughout your career, even when you have a family. Being in an environment where peers are balancing family life and medical school inspired me. I knew I could learn from their experiences and develop the skills to manage similar challenges in the future. These would be invaluable in shaping me both personally and professionally.

Studying in the UK had also always appealed to me. My father studied here and would often share stories about how the culture, people, and challenges of being abroad shaped him mentally and physically. He emphasized how the distance from home taught him independence and resilience, and I was inspired to experience that for myself. He also spoke about how education in the UK emphasizes self-directed learning, which I believe is crucial for fostering proactivity and independence in medical training.

Additionally, I have friends who are also studying medicine in the UK and having them as part of my support system was an important factor in my decision. Pursuing a challenging degree far from home can be daunting, but being surrounded by people who understand and support you makes the journey much more manageable.

 

How did you find the transition to life and study in the UK?

If I am being honest, the transition to life and study in the UK was challenging. There were so many new things I had to adapt to, such as the accent, slang, and lifestyle. The biggest adjustment was realizing that everything closes at 5pm here! Growing up in Malaysia, I was used to the vibrant nightlife and late-night eateries, which are an essential part of the culture there. Adapting to a quieter lifestyle took time, but I can see how it helped me.

This change encouraged me to become healthier and more disciplined. I started waking up earlier to seize the day and going to bed earlier as well. With not much to do at night, I often stayed home, revised, or spent quality time with friends. This new routine has helped me focus more on my goals and spend more time academically, which is exactly what I need to complete this degree.

In terms of studying, I had to adjust to new guidelines and systems, but the transition was made easier thanks to the support I received from the university and my peers. Their guidance and encouragement have been instrumental in helping me settle in and succeed.

 

What has the MB ChB been like so far and how have you found your overall Warwick experience as an international student?

The MB ChB program at Warwick has been amazing. The self-directed learning time allows me to explore my clinical interests by joining different ward rounds, clinics, and specialties. This flexibility has been one of the best aspects of Warwick Medical School, as medical school is a critical time to discover my passions and decide what I want to pursue further in the medical field.

My overall experience at Warwick has been very pleasant. Everyone here is incredibly friendly and helpful, and the welcoming nature of the people has played a huge role in helping me settle in. Initially, it was slightly challenging as there are not many international students in medicine, but this became less significant over time. The friendliness and outgoing nature of my peers made it easy to make friends and blend in.

One of my highlights has been my supportive group of friends. Being so far away from home, having a reliable support system makes a huge difference in staying grounded. For that, I am always grateful for their support and companionship, which have made university life much more fun and helped make Warwick feel like home.

 

Have you been involved in any extracurricular activities?

Yes, I am quite an active person, so naturally I had to join sports - specifically badminton and volleyball. I regularly participate in badminton sessions organized by the Warwick Medics Society, Malaysian, Singaporean, and Indonesian societies. I’ve also joined tournaments hosted by Warwick’s Badminton Club and the annual medics badminton tournament (NAMS).

I enjoy getting involved with different societies, especially those from various countries, as it’s a great way to meet new people and make friends. These activities have been a fantastic outlet for staying active, connecting with others, and maintaining a good balance between academics and personal interests.

 

What tips do you have for other international applicants?

Embrace the challenge of adapting. Moving to a new country and culture can be tough, but it is also an opportunity for growth. Take the time to adjust to the different lifestyle, accents, and social norms. It might feel overwhelming at first, but with time, it will feel more natural. Please be patient with yourself. The transition to studying abroad takes time. Do not be hard on yourself if things do not feel easy right away. Give yourself the space to adjust, and lean on the resources available to you, whether it is the university or your friends.

Do not forget to also build a support network and be open to new experiences. It is essential to surround yourself with a supportive group of friends. Even if you are far from home, having a reliable support system makes a huge difference in staying grounded. Joining different societies and extracurricular activities can help you meet new people and broaden your perspective. Participating in sports or cultural events is a great way to feel connected and make friends from diverse backgrounds. Do not hesitate to reach out to both local and international students who can relate to your experience.

Finally, just enjoy your time in uni. I promise you, these will be the fastest years you will ever experience!