Nabila Tahsin
Name: Nabila Tahsin
Age: 25
Nationality: Bangladeshi
Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology) (2014)
Honours Degree of Bachelor of Science (2015)
Scholarship: Entrance Scholarship/ 2011-2013
Awards received: Best Graduate Award in Bachelor of Science (Honours)/ 2015
Where are you working / studying presently? Please describe your scope of responsibilities at work/ scope of study (if currently pursuing a higher degree).
Ph.D program at University of Otago, New Zealand. I am in the developmental biology field, looking at how cohesin mutations lead to diseased phenotype in a zebrafish model.
Why did you decide to study at Monash University Malaysia?
It was geographically closer to home (Bangladesh) while still offering a world class education.
What/who influenced your decision in choosing Monash?
No one. However, the Scholarship offer definitely sweetened the deal.
Please describe your study experience at Monash University Malaysia.
Looking back, it was a fabulous experience. The workload during my Undergraduate degree was intense but ultimately worthwhile. I had access to a variety of lab equipments that have only expanded my skill set. I was also lucky to have found incredible mentors in both official and unofficial capacity.
Were there any obstacles faced while studying here? How did you overcome these?
I was diagnosed with clinical depression and anxiety disorder towards the end of my Bachelor’s degree. The counselling services offered on campus was a life saver. It helped to keep me on track and I eventually graduated with an HI Honours.
What qualities did you acquire during your studies at Monash University Malaysia that were beneficial / helpful to you in the working world?
Tenacity, resourcefulness and stubbornness as well as the confidence to continuously ask questions.
Do you think that having received a Monash education was beneficial to you when you first entered the working world?
Yes, it was beneficial to me when I applied for PhD programs all over the world. It also added an extra “ompf” factor to my CV.
What advice would you offer to current students who wish to attain success in University
Be prepared to do the work, make sure you have a good support system around you and don’t hesitate to ask for help.
Please name one memorable educational experience for you at Monash University Malaysia.
Dissecting a zebrafish brain for my Honours project.