My undergraduate studies provided me with a comprehensive foundation of scientific knowledge, but it was my postgraduate studies at the Master’s level that allowed me to specialize and sharpen my theoretical and practical skills in academic research. For example, the laboratory visiting rotation scheme, which is part of the Master’s program, enabled me to acquire a plethora of experimental technical skills and add them to my portfolio. Moreover, the process of composing a grant proposal for research funding as part of my academic studies served as a means to stimulate and sharpen my critical thinking skills.