In 2023, Fudan University initiated a one-year preparatory course tailored for international students, hosted by the International Cultural Exchange School (ICES). This comprehensive curriculum is crafted to offer training across five core subjects taught in Chinese high schools: Chinese, English, Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry. Serving as a transitional academic stepping stone, this program equips students with the essential foundation needed to embark on their undergraduate journey in China.
Shuet Lam (with red hair on the right) poses with her friends
Prep year being a valuable prelude
Shuet Lam Cheong, a Malaysian student of Cantonese descent, enrolled in a 6-year Undergraduate Program of Clinical Medicine (MBBS) after her preppy year.
“The challenging academic environment here actively motivates me to study harder.” she stated, “I was fascinated by this atmosphere at my first glance.”
“I strongly feel the prep course give me an edge over other students in MBBS,” said Shuet Lam. When she kicked off her bachelor life, she attributed her ease at Calculus, Physics and Chemistry classes to the preparation she made during the prep year. “I’m thankful that though it’s not in-depth, I’ve gained a basic understanding in those subjects. At first, I found it difficult when coming across some theories and concepts in physics, but that’s no longer the case after completing the prep course.”
Whenever she or her classmates have any questions, all teachers were so patient to answer them, no matter how basic or repetitive the problems seemed. She recalled, “Our teachers personally ensured that we were keeping pace with our lessons. They not only shared their knowledge but also demonstrated a sincere interest in our well-being.”
Embracing clinical medicine with resolve
On one occasion, when Shuet Lam visited a family member in the hospital, the notion of pursuing a major in medical care struck her instantly.
She admitted, “While choosing Fudan for my preparatory year was primarily driven by my interest in medical care, I was still uncertain about my ability to excel in clinical medicine and whether I would continue my studies here,” With these doubts, she sought guidance from her class advisor, SONG Qing. “She provided me with her own views and encouraged me to try different paths.”
Taking SONG’s suggestion, Shuet Lam explored a wide range of options by auditing classes and seeking advice from current medical students in Fudan. Later, after finishing the prep course, she was no longer at sea. “MBBS is the perfect fit for me,” she said affirmatively. As a first-year undergraduate, she paid a visit to Nanjing First Hospital with her mentor, where she observed the daily efforts of the doctors both in direct patient care and behind the scenes. “I think I’ve made the right choice.”
Buzzing with extracurricular activities in Fudan
Shuet Lam chose four optional modules in her prep year. Her favorite is the Thai Language. “The instructor often employed a playful approach to help us learn and retain vocabulary,” she shared.
Despite abundant chances provided by the prep course, Shuet Lam has been an active member of the Cantonese Club for over a year, playing a pivotal role in orchestrating events such as a gourmet festival and a Cantonese singing competition. “In the midst of planning these activities, I’m more immersed in university’s life.”
“The prep year has not only expanded my foundational knowledge of Clinical Medicine but also brought her one step closer to my aspirations. I am now certain about my career path,” Shuet Lam said with conviction. Driven by a passion to heal, she is committed to advancing her studies while savoring her university experience.
Info of signing up for 2025 preppy - https://iso.fudan.edu.cn/af/85/c16796a700293/page.htm
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Writer: YIN Zhenjie, WANG Jingyang
Editor: WANG Mengqi, LI Yijie
