Meet The Doctor of Medicine (Rural Pathway) students studying across rural Victoria. Learn about their stories and journeys towards advancing their medical studies.
2025
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Letitia Bardawil
Growing up in a town of 1200 people in rural NSW, Letitia applied for the Doctor of Medicine (Rural Pathway) as it gave her the flexibility to study her entire medical degree in regional, small towns that felt like home.
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Sam Schembri
Set on becoming a doctor from the age of 13, Sam Schembri joined the Rural Clinical School in 2025 for one year, as part of the Rural Zone experience offered at the University of Melbourne.
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Huda Dabash
Growing up in Gilgandra, NSW, Huda was exposed to healthcare her entire life, with her father being the town’s GP, she notes “from a young age, that was my exposure and experience of medicine in a regional area.”
2024
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Sammy Le Nepveu
Growing up in Woodend in regional Victoria, Samantha (Sammy) was drawn to the Doctor of Medicine (Rural Pathway) as it allowed her to maintain a country lifestyle while completing a medical degree.
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Alfred Joseph
Alfred, who is originally from Mildura, applied for the Doctor of Medicine (Rural Pathway) because it allows him to study his entire medical degree in a rural setting to prepare for a future career in rural medicine.
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Ella Sprunt
Studying rurally was an important factor for Ella when applying for medicine. Born and raised in the Goulburn Valley region, Ella wanted a program that gave first-hand insights into the health inequities in regional and rural Australia.
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Joseph Kenny
Joseph (Joe) grew up in Bendigo in regional Victoria and so, naturally he has a passion for rural areas and communities. Having just completed his first year of medicine, Joe reflects on his time and shares some insight into the program.
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Kranjol Khanal
Growing up in Darwin, Kranjol developed an interest in rural medicine and a desire to further understand of the unique needs of rural communities.
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Tadiwanashe Masiboy
After migrating to Australia from Zimbabwe, Tadiwanashe (Tadi) and her family settled in Bendigo, where she experienced the close-knit support of a regional town. This sense of community inspired her commitment to giving back.
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Madeline Strong
Madeline came through to the Doctor of Medicine (Rural Pathway) through the Graduate Entry where she previously studied the Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Melbourne.
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Madeline Grinter
Growing up with a chronic illness in a rural area sparked Maddy's passion for rural pediatrics and the need to address gaps in regional healthcare. Staying local has her to build valuable relationships while remaining close to her support network.
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Eleanor Robinson
Growing up in a small town, Eleanor was inspired by the meaningful role rural doctors play both in and outside of medicine. The program offers the chance to practice fulfilling medicine while staying close to family and enjoying the rural lifestyle.