By Iman Irdina, an Internship Programme student from UNIMAS.

My time as an intern at Universiti Putra Malaysia Microbial Culture Collection Unit (UPM-MCC) was both insightful and life-changing. Thanks to UPM-MCC, I now have a comprehensive understanding of the real-world applications of microbiology. During my internship, I participated in a variety of lab activities, workshops, and events that enhanced both my technical and soft skills. Throughout the internship, I learned how to handle laboratory equipment, perform sterilization procedures, and dispose of clinical waste following biosafety protocols. Additionally, I was responsible for tasks such as medium preparation, Gram staining, CFU counting, antimicrobial testing, and other critical laboratory management duties. These hands-on experiences were incredibly rewarding as they allowed me to apply my academic knowledge to real-world laboratory investigations.  

Beyond daily tasks, I was also involved in the preparation and organization of workshops. While I did not participate in these workshops directly, the experience broadened my understanding and exposed me to new learning opportunities. I was also privileged to assist UPM-MCC during the Institute of Bioscience (IBS) Open Day. This event was particularly significant and enlightening, as it involved interacting with visitors from diverse backgrounds. It served as a valuable stepping stone for me to improve my soft skills, especially in communication and teamwork.  

Overall, this internship was an excellent opportunity to refine my soft skills and expand my technical expertise. The supportive supervisors and coworkers at UPM-MCC, coupled with the collaborative environment, made this experience truly enriching and helped prepare me for my future professional endeavors.  

My heartfelt gratitude goes to my supervisor, Puan Musliyana, as well as Kak Mai and Kak Ainaa, for their unwavering support and patience throughout my internship. Their guidance was instrumental in helping me overcome challenges and acquire valuable knowledge. I would also like to extend my appreciation to Prof. Zunita, Dr. Ina, and all the staff at IBS for their kindness and encouragement. I sincerely hope that IBS and UPM-MCC continue to gain recognition for their exceptional works and attract more collaborations, both locally and internationally, further solidifying their impacts within the scientific community. It has been an honor to contribute in any small way to these efforts, and I eagerly anticipate seeing how the laboratory continues to grow and thrive in the future. Until then, thank you.

Date of Input: 24/12/2024 | Updated: 24/12/2024 | azah