10 questions with Gabriel

(Gabriel is in pink, standing at the extreme left of the photo)

1.     Why did you choose your course?

The medical career attracted me because of my interest in science, passion to help the needy, and being able to constantly move around and communicate to people. I specifically chose dietetics because of my love for food. It brings people of different backgrounds together, and an expression of joy. But many people today have taken the extreme by over consuming food such that obesity and other food related illnesses are proliferating into a societal problem. Through this course, I hope to be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to educate the public with a right attitude towards healthy habits.

2.     What do you love about your state/Australia/UK?

Adelaide may not have much nightlife to offer, or the best activities in the city; but it offers one of the best natural get-away.

3.     What are the top 5 items you would bring from Singapore to Australia/UK every semester?

I would bring the different local food premixes, dried Chinese herbs and local snacks. Asian groceries can get expensive in Adelaide, as they are not widely sold. Some familiar brands are not available here too.

I would have my mother’s “secret” recipes kept close to me, especially when I’ve to live independently. These recipes are handy for potluck session with friends, or even introducing my culture to the Aussies.

I would bring my bolster because Australia doesn’t sell any.

I would bring my music books. Playing the piano is my way of relaxing, enjoying and “escaping” the world. 

Lastly, I would bring my hard disk of movies and TV shows. During free times, it is good to seat back and catch some programs to loosen up.

4.     Which Singaporean food do you miss the most?

Home-cooked soup! Being brought up in a Cantonese family, I have piping-hot soup during most meals. My mother would use the traditional charcoal stove to boil Chinese soups (and even desserts, stewed food, clay pot rice) for hours. After the hard work and long wait, I get to enjoy a heartwarming bowl of rich soup.

5.     What is the first thing you would do upon returning back to Singapore from Australia/ UK?

Go on a bicycle food trail with friends is a good way to move around Singapore to capture the different sights and sounds. And while we get to eat, exercise is necessary too. Most importantly, eating in a group is much more enjoyable and fun, and wider variety of food to choose from.

6.     Which aspect of your course do you like the most?

Getting to tweak recipes. My healthy living is having a balance lifestyle. A person doesn’t need to forgo completely something, but can substitute with a better alternative, like swapping wholemeal for ‘white’ processed food. Modifying recipes allows me to create food that is fun, tasty and still healthy.

7.     What were the top 3 challenges you face when you first arrived in Australia/UK?

Adelaide’s weather is drastic. Back in Singapore, where there’s only sun and rain, Adelaide can get really cold and windy on one day, but hot and dry on the next.

The Australian culture tends to be more open and expressive as compared to the Asia’s. Certain colloquial or topics of discussion used here are unfamiliar to me. 

University life is much different from past school experiences, especially the fact that I’ve more independence. It requires more self-discipline to revise and prepare before lessons.

8.     If a friend visits you in Australia/UK , where would you bring him/her to?

Handorf is a beautiful, old German town that offers a picturesque view of traditional houses, accompanied with good, authentic German food, wine and cheese. The road comes to a sweet ending at a famous jam-making factory, where people can do some strawberry picking.

9.     What is one common misconception about your course?

We are all very healthy “freaks”. People tend to perceive dietitians as constantly counting calories, promoting steamed vegetables and good proteins, and advocating only for no sugar and low fat. Yes, we advice and practice right eating habits mostly; however, dietitians are humans. While we sometimes do give in to cravings, it is essential to achieve a balance. What I will like to share with patients in the future is to eat the appropriate food, in the appropriate amount, at the appropriate time.

10. What is the most unique food you have tried in Australia/UK?

Kangaroo, emu and crocodile meats.

Written by:
Gabriel Wong Jun Yung

Flinders University
Nutrition and Dietetics Year 1 (SA)