
Rakshanaa Pandian
How did your early interest in biology shape your decision to pursue a degree in biomedical sciences?
My interest in biology began in secondary school, where I first discovered how genetic disorders and single-cell mutations can impact entire living systems. This fascination grew as I participated in healthcare outreach programmes, driven by a desire to make a positive impact.
After graduating from secondary school, I discovered PSB Academy and began my journey with a Foundation Diploma in Life Sciences in 2022. This laid the groundwork for me to progress to a Bachelor’s Degree in Biomedical Sciences with La Trobe University in 2023.
What made you choose PSB Academy’s La Trobe University over other institutions?
The collaborative and practical learning environment, combined with the international recognition of the La Trobe degree and the programme’s flexibility, made PSB Academy the best choice for me.
How has your learning experience been so far?
The course is very hands-on, with lab practicals like protein purification and DNA manipulation that helped me apply theory to real techniques, making learning engaging and productive.
Each module had its set of challenges and rewards, equipping me with a solid foundation in gene regulation and expression. This foundation proved instrumental during my internship at Honeywell, where I was able to contribute valuable insights and apply what I had learned in a practical setting.
Describe the teaching style and support from lecturers that inspired your learning?
I like the teaching style of Dr Renugah — she breaks down complex topics into manageable concepts with real-life examples, which kept me motivated.
Looking back what are some soft/hard skills that you have gained from this course?
Through group projects, I’ve learned to step out of my comfort zone and engage in meaningful conversations with my peers—an experience that was new to me. More importantly, I’ve gained
confidence in public speaking, enhanced my problem-solving abilities, and learned to work independently.
The course also exposed me to a broad range of topics, from genetics to pharmacology, and deepened my understanding of the diverse career opportunities available within the field of biomedical sciences.
What advice would you give to someone considering bachelors of biomedical sciences?
Be curious and proactive—don’t just memorise. Understand the concepts, ask questions, and seek hands-on experiences. It’s a field that rewards passion and persistence. I’d also say the environment is very welcoming, and you’ll have the chance to make friends from various age groups.
If you could sum up your experience at La Trobe University in a sentence, what would they be?
It’s been a meaningful journey that’s helped me grow not just in science, but also as a leader and someone who thinks beyond the classroom