Q: What is it about medicine that interests you?

Medicine interests me, for it is such a rich, dynamic subject with genetics, which I believe to be very crucial in solving problems caused by biological, societal and environmental factors. I was particularly intrigued by atrial septal defects, which are particularly problematic in young children. At a cardiovascular conference hosted by doctors from Stanford, we learnt that a mutation in the NKX2-5 gene could result in heart deformities. We proposed procedures involving the use of fibroblasts, LIPUS, and CRISPR-Cas9 to tackle the defect at its root. Advances in technology have truly made genetics even more crucial in the field of medicine.

Q: How did you decide on your major instead of applying for direct entry to medicine?

For the longest time, I thought I would study traditional biology and then become a physician. However, after reading Lu Xun’s A Madman’s Diary, I realised that an ill person cannot be diagnosed through his biological state alone; the psyche must also be taken into consideration. I began thinking, “Can medicine cure a person whose madness is not biological but societal in nature?” To me, the answer was no, for the key to understanding and treating humans lies in a thorough examination of the links between biology, society, and the environment, or in other words, an interdisciplinary education like human sciences.

Q: How did your teachers and University Counselling support you in the last few years to get you to where you are?

In the last few years, all of my subject teachers have dedicated their time for the greatest interest of us, from staying after school to giving up lunchtimes. Further, I would like to appreciate the University Counselling Team for helping me throughout the application season, especially converting my essays from dull and gibberish to shiny and appealing. Lastly, I would like to thank our Oxbridge programme teachers for their lively interview coaching and kindness of staying after school for mock exams. A huge shoutout to all of them!

Q: Of the offers you have received, how are you comparing the factors important to you when choosing a university?

To me, the most important factor when choosing a university would be research opportunities as well as connection with resources. Besides academics, I would like to be at a place where I can travel often and just enjoy my life while studying.

(University offers in the UK are typically conditional of final IB results.)