What made you apply for the Doctor of Medicine (Rural Pathway) program?

I was lucky enough to grow up in a small town with a very active health service and GP clinic, and I have seen the enormous impact that good medicine has on the community. But I have also seen the things rural doctors can do both in and outside of the realm of medicine. This combination of being able to do a fulfilling and exciting job that serves to improve the community while staying close to home and being able to ski on the weekends or check on the cows after work is something that truly has inspired me.

This course is the perfect combination of medicine and rurality, and whilst it will prepare me to be a great rural doctor, it is also keeping me close to home and my family. Medicine is not easy, but being closer to the things and people I love makes it an incredibly rewarding experience.

What have been the highlights of the course so far?

The highlight of the course so far has absolutely been the GP clinic placement. Although it was very daunting walking into the clinic after only 8 weeks, it has been so rewarding and inspiring to be able to interact with patients. A part of this has been meeting and working with passionate rural doctors who have been so patient and encouraging every step of the way, and the way they share their knowledge and passion is truly inspiring.

What advice would you give to other students considering applying for the course?

If you're considering this degree, my advice would be to absolutely apply! Rural medicine is incredibly rewarding but also challenging, so stay curious, embrace every opportunity and be open to learning. The rural clinical school is such a welcoming environment, and you will be supported through every step of your medical degree.