Distinction recipients of the Malaysian Nursing Board Registration Examination, Niam Xin Tian and Tan Bee Hwa (Subang Jaya, Group 1/2015) recently dropped by the College to pay a visit to their lecturers and supporting college staff. Both are currently working at Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital in Singapore. We managed to get some quick words from them to share with students who wish to join the Singapore nursing workforce.

Speaking about their experience, the duo shared that the culture is the same in both countries, however in Singapore, English is used more in everyday communication. In terms of skills that they have learned during their 3 years of studies with IMC, it is suitably relevant to their job responsibilities.  Nurses also need to learn to be more patient as their patients have more needs during their road to recovery.

Working in a foreign land also comes with challenges of learning the hospital’s patient management system. They observed that processes are more systematic, allowing them to work more efficiently once they have familiarised with the system.

Other challenges that they encountered was with some healthcare terms that are used in the hospital as some of them are a little different from here but these small roadblocks are easily overcome after some time.

What they found most rewarding is being able to contribute their suggestions and opinions with the doctors, participating in the care of their patients.

Niam and Tan left some advice for fellow students and friends joining the workforce;

“Even when you start working, you will still need to learn. The skills are the same but there are other things that you will need to learn to adapt to your working environment. If you are willing to learn, you can excel in your workplace.” ~Niam Xin Tian

“Appreciate the time when you are a student nurse because there are lecturers to guide you. When you are a registered nurse, the responsibility is on your shoulders.” ~Tan Bee Hwa

We are proud of your work. Keep chasing your dreams and rise up further in the Nursing field.