Sapna Devi - Graduate of Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Biomedical Sciences in 2005, 1st Class Honours from Monash University, Monash University Scholarship for PhD in 2007

A pioneer graduate from Republic Polytechnic’s Diploma in Biomedical Sciences and Advanced Diploma in Biomedical Sciences, Sapna Devi, has done well to be offered two scholarships from Monash University in Australia. This happened just a year after she graduated from RP through its International Programme in Biomedical Sciences (IPBMS). Devi has obtained a first class honours from Monash University in 2007. She has decided to pursue a PhD with these scholarships.

The International Programme in Biomedical Sciences (IPBMS) is the result of a collaborative effort between Republic Polytechnic and the Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Australia. It offers polytechnic students in the field of biomedical sciences an additional pathway to gain a degree. RP students who obtain good grades will be able to complete both the DBMS as well as the Advanced Diploma in Biomedical Sciences (ADBMS) within three years at RP.

Devi attributes her family for her success. “They have struggled a lot to give me and my brother what we desire. So, I believe it is my responsibility to do my best in my studies,” she said.

A former student of Bishan Park Secondary who obtained 19 points for ELR2B2 in 2002, Devi claims that she is an average student, “I think they will be shocked to learn that I have completed my degree within four years after O level.”

Acknowledging that there is a difference between the learning pedagogy at Republic Polytechnic and Monash University, she said, “The Problem-based learning approach at RP gives me a head start and makes me more independent in my approach to learning. PBL has taught me to be more disciplined and organised. I have also became more outspoken and ask relevant questions to help me find answers in different situations. The transition from PBL to a lecture-tutorial system at Monash University is a smooth one.”

Reported by BC (24/01/2008) (DH)