International education empowers medical dreams: knowledge and friendship shape the path of Mongolian alumna Oyundari ENKHBAATAR

Driven by a deep aspiration for international education, Mongolian alumna Oyundari ENKHBAATAR embarked on a solo academic journey to Macao. She chose to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Sciences at the Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS) of the University of Macau (UM), and later continued her studies in the PhD programme in the same field. Although the outbreak of COVID-19 prevented her from returning to UM to complete her doctoral degree, the academic training and language proficiency she gained at UM empowered her to successfully pursue a medical degree in Mongolia. She eventually graduated and became a qualified medical doctor. Her time at UM was not only a journey of academic exploration but also one of personal growth and humanistic care—laying the foundation for her dream of becoming a medical professional.

Empowered by education, inspired by humanity

Arriving in Macao with limited English proficiency and facing cultural differences, Oyundari initially struggled to adapt. ‘It was really difficult at first,’ she recalls. ‘But I was fortunate—my classmates and professors were very kind and supportive.’ Immersed in a welcoming and international learning environment, she gradually overcame language barriers and significantly improved her English, which later became a key factor in her ability to complete a fully English-taught medical programme in Mongolia.

She credits the FHS curriculum for its strong integration of theory and practice, which built her academic resilience and prepared her for medical school. Her active participation in various FHS academic activities, including presenting her research at the Macau Symposium of Biomedical Sciences, further enriched her learning experience and highlighted her dedication to scientific inquiry and communication.

During her time at UM, Oyundari served as one of the first executive members of the UM International Students Association. She mentioned that she was part of a truly global academic community at UM. With students and faculty from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds, the university fosters an international perspective that encourages cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. This multicultural environment not only broadened her worldview but also prepared her to thrive in global academic and clinical settings.

Lasting bonds and lifelong impact

Oyundari reflects that while the rigorous academic training at UM laid a solid foundation for her success, what left the deepest impression was the meaningful relationships she built at FHS. ‘Beyond knowledge, the greatest gift I carry with me from FHS was the friendship and support from my professors and classmates. That sense of belonging and encouragement is something I will always treasure,’ she shares.

During her time at UM, Oyundari developed strong bonds with her mentors, many of whom she remains in close contact with to this day. She expressed particular gratitude to Prof Ruiyu XIE and Prof Garry WONG for their guidance both academically and personally. ‘Prof Xie was my supervisor during my undergraduate studies and the first year of my PhD studies. She not only provided clear direction in my research but also offered invaluable advice during difficult times,’ Oyundari says.

Prof Xie played a pivotal role at every stage of Oyundari’s academic journey. Even after Oyundari made the difficult decision to remain in Mongolia due to the pandemic and pursue a medical degree there, the two continued to stay in close contact. Oyundari frequently consulted Prof Xie on her career planning, exploring paths in clinical practice, scientific research, and even the possibility of returning to Macao. ‘Prof Xie always listened patiently and gave me thoughtful, experience-based advice. She encouraged me to make choices aligned with my interests and strengths, and reminded me to stay passionate about medicine and science, no matter where I am,’ she recalls.

Speaking of Prof Garry Wong, Oyundari expressed deep admiration and heartfelt appreciation. In addition to being a faculty professor, Prof Wong also served as the residential fellow of her college. ‘Prof Wong was more than just a teacher and residential fellow, he was like a mentor and a friend. His teaching style was clear and engaging, and he had a remarkable ability to explain complex concepts in simple terms, which helped me build confidence in my academic abilities,” she says. ‘He also supports students beyond the classroom. As someone who came to Macao alone, his support made me feel like I had family here.’

Her participation in the Summer Research Programme in Prof Wong’s laboratory not only deepened her practical experience in biomedical research but also further strengthened their mentor-mentee relationship. According to Oyundari, Prof Wong consistently showed genuine care for students’ academic progress and personal well-being, creating a nurturing environment where everyone felt seen, supported, and valued.

A testament to the transformative power of international education

From a student navigating the challenges of language and cultural adaptation to a qualified doctor capable of completing an English-medium medical programme, Oyundari’s journey has been one of perseverance and heartfelt growth. Her time at FHS gave her more than just knowledge and skills. It offered her meaningful mentorship and lasting connections that supported her through pivotal moments in life.

Her commitment to international collaboration extended beyond her own studies. During her time at UM, she initiated a summer student exchange programme between the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences (MNUMS), where she recently graduated, and UM. Although the programme was paused due to the pandemic, she remains enthusiastic about reviving it and hopes to create more opportunities for Mongolian and Macao students to learn and grow together.

Education is not only about the transmission of knowledge; it is also about the bonds formed along the way. Oyundari’s story is a powerful testament to this transformative force of international education.