Sheying Chung
2nd-year student, Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science
She chose to study medical laboratory science because it combines science and medicine, says Sheying Chung who grew up in Fiji and came to AUT as an international student.
“I’ve always wanted to be in healthcare and help people when they’re vulnerable, but I didn’t want to pursue a patient-facing front-line profession. Medical laboratory science is the perfect pick for me because it’s a behind-the-scenes role, but you still play a critical role in supporting patient care and treatment. Medical lab professionals are the detectives – they’re the first ones to know what is going on with the patient before it reaches the doctors.”
When it came to choosing where to study, AUT stood out to her for its practical approach and student support.
“I chose AUT because of its strong student support system and the practical aspects of the degree. AUT ensures that students are ready before entering the workforce, equipping students with essential hands-on skills needed in their careers. My programme, for example, is largely laboratory-based, and I enjoy all my laboratory classes at AUT as they help connect the dots in theory. We also have opportunities to learn from lecturers who have experience working in the medical laboratory science industry, which gives us insight into what working in the profession is actually like. These experiences have helped me develop practical skills, become more confident in the laboratory, and better understand how what I learn at university applies to my future career as a medical laboratory scientist.”
Making connections
For Sheying, the people she has met throughout her studies are among the highlights of her time at AUT.
“My lecturers are highly skilled and passionate about teaching. They’re friendly and approachable, and make classes enjoyable by bringing industry experience from working in medical laboratory science. They’re highly inspiring and motivating for us students. I’m very grateful to have them as my lecturers and as people I can look up to. I was particularly impressed by my pathology lecturer, Dr Philip Lopez, who makes pathology enjoyable and less overwhelming despite its sheer amount of content. I always look forward to attending his classes, and he is always happy to answer my questions outside of class as well.
“AUT has also enabled me to meet people from different backgrounds and build friendships I didn’t expect when I first started university. I enjoy spending time and trying out delicious food with my friends on campus or around the city between classes. With a busy degree like medical laboratory science, having people around me who are going through the same experience makes university enjoyable. We talk about our classes and help each other when we’re struggling with something. These small moments have helped me build strong friendships and made my university experience more memorable.”
One achievement she is especially proud of is being invited into AUT’s Amokura Vice-Chancellor’s Leadership Programme.
“I honestly didn’t know that AUT had this programme, so I was surprised when Hans Tommy, the programme manager, reached out to me. The programme has enabled me to connect with people from various backgrounds, and it has been really interesting to learn about their different experiences and perspectives. It has also provided me with opportunities to develop my leadership skills, step outside my comfort zone, and take part in experiences I probably wouldn’t have had otherwise. I’m also proud of myself for achieving good grades at university. The time and effort I have put into my studies have really paid off.”
Highly recommended
Sheying wouldn’t hesitate to recommend AUT to other students.
“I’d recommend studying at AUT to others because it provides a good balance between academic learning and practical experience. I’ve also enjoyed meeting new people and spending time with friends between classes, which has made my university experience more enjoyable. The support from lecturers and opportunities to learn from people with industry experience have also helped me feel more prepared for my future career. Outside of my studies, I’ve had opportunities to become more involved in activities, which has helped me grow in confidence and become more comfortable stepping outside my comfort zone. I also appreciate the surveys we have for every course at the end of the semester, asking about our experiences and the things AUT could improve in classes.”
She has some great advice for others who are only at the start of their own university experience.
“My advice would be to stay consistent with your studies and not be discouraged by the sheer amount of content. It can feel overwhelming at times, but taking things one step at a time and asking for help when you need it can make a big difference. I’d also encourage you to make time for your friends and enjoy the university experience, rather than focusing only on studying. Most importantly, keep going even when things get difficult, because you never know what could be waiting for you on the other side.”
