Letitia Bardawil

Meet Letitia

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.

Currently studying her second year in Shepparton, Letitia came through the La Trobe University guaranteed entry pathway, completing her undergraduate in Bendigo.

“Something that really excited me was the placements in first year. Not many medical degrees give you that exposure so early on. Especially in rural towns like Shepparton, the doctors are all so nice and will show you as much as they can. They even give you hands-on experience. It’s been the highlight of my time here.

I’ve felt so supported throughout my studies. The CSL tutors and admin staff have provided guidance and support. It really feels like they want me to succeed.”

Letitia notes that she’s been able to build a supportive community throughout her time in Shepparton and has even immersed herself in social activities in the community.

“I’ve built some of the best friendships of my life through my time studying. We’re all in close proximity and we have a lot in common, so it’s been great to find likeminded people.

Within the community I’ve been involved in social sports. It’s helped me find hobbies outside of studying, destress and meet and interact with new people. I’ve built my own community here.”

When asked about her plans for the future, Letitia expressed that she’d like to stay rural and is looking forward to continuing her studies in Echuca next year.