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.
Meet Sammy
What made you apply for the Doctor of Medicine (Rural Pathway) program?
I have lived rurally for majority of my life and have always loved the lifestyle - so I knew that I wanted it to be a part of my career in the future! Seeing that the University of Melbourne were offering a medical degree that allowed me to have the country lifestyle whilst doing a medical degree was the biggest selling point. It also seemed like a fantastic opportunity to experience rural medicine and make connections before starting my career.
The smaller cohort also was a strong selling point as I wanted a course that would provide me with the best opportunity to meet new people. Also, having a smaller cohort was tempting as it could provide me with less competition in accessing learning opportunities.
What have been the highlights of the course so far?
The people that I have met! It was a big deal for me moving to a new town on my own, but I have been so blessed to meet so many amazing people. Some of the best times have been sitting with everyone on our picnic blankets on the lawn or going on brunch trips together. It's not just the students - but the staff at the Department of Rural Health are so lovely and welcoming too (and they sometimes bring in their dogs, which is a nice treat!).
Through clinical placement this year, I have been able to see the direct impact that my future career can have on a local community. Seeing local doctors go above and beyond to assist their local community is incredibly inspiring for my future career and has certainly guided the type of doctor I want to become.
What advice would you give to other students considering applying for the course?
Absolutely do it! Moving to Shepparton can seem like a big deal at the time, but the University is amazing at helping you with accommodation and integrating you into the local community. Shepparton is so diverse in the activities that it provides - whether you like sports, arts or are a foodie, Shepparton will likely have something for you to enjoy!
There is also no difference in the educational experience that we get and that students in the metro cohort get. We get the exact same lectures, tutorials, workshops and placements. We have great access to equipment and tutors, so the learning opportunities are very much the same! Many of my colleagues have also had the opportunities to join clubs and societies out here, so we aren't disadvantaged at all.