Sanaa Yaseen Issa completed her MSc in Molecular Medicine at INFORMM, where she conducted research on the immunomodulatory effects of medicinal mushroom extracts on macrophage-mediated immune responses. During the session, Sanaa reflected on her 1.5-year postgraduate journey at INFORMM, USM, sharing cherished memories of her time at the institute, from adapting to research life and coursework in Malaysia to navigating the realities of thesis work in immunology and molecular biology.

She shared an honest account of her academic experience, including what she would approach differently in hindsight, and traced how her time at INFORMM shaped her career path, from teaching roles in her home country to her current work towards a PhD in precision medicine. The session offered practical insights for those considering the Molecular Medicine programme, balancing personal reflection with concrete advice on making the most of the INFORMM experience.

She is currently pursuing an academic scientific career while strengthening the research and technical skills needed to pursue a PhD in precision medicine and immunology in the near future.