Why did you choose to study science [or medicine, or health] at ANU over any other institution ?
It was a new course at the ANU, so I was attracted to the fact that it was fresh and innovative. On investigating the structure of the program I was attracted to the school’s focus on clinical skills and communication underpinned by the medical sciences. I also chose ANU due to its ranking as one of the (arguably) best universities in Australia.

What was the best feature of studying medicine at ANU?
We only have around 80 students for my year so it is a small cohort compared to other medical schools. Fortunately this means that we enjoy a professional intimacy with our colleagues and the faculty which I don’t think you’d find at larger medical schools. Studying here has definitely lived up to my expectations, and looking back, I know I’d happily make the same choice again.

How do you feel the ANU is preparing you for your future?
The ANU qualification itself is probably a worthy guide, as the ANU is internationally recognised as a formidable institution. Course wise, because it is based around active learning, the program not only arms us with essential knowledge and skills but also equips us to best communicate that knowledge to patients. Additionally, the principle of lifelong learning throughout the medical career is well established early on.

What is your favourite part of the program so far?
It would have to be last year where I lived and worked as a student doctor in Goulburn for my rural clinical elective year. It was a very hands on experience; being an active participant in the delivery of health care compared to the usual classroom experience, and ANU’s clinical school program is probably one of the best in Australia.  The staff are knowledgeable, enthusiastic and very dedicated and we are lucky to enjoy such a resource rich program away from the traditional city hospital setting.

What has been the highly of your ANU experience to date?
Having come to Canberra without knowing a single person, meeting a group of people who share similar interests was very rewarding.  The post-graduate entry course attracts people from such diverse disciplines, which enriches the group learning opportunities.

What do you enjoy about living in Canberra?
I love the weather; it’s a nice contrast to Central Queensland where it’s usually hot and humid. Canberra’s also a student friendly place that provides a good array of clinical opportunities to medical students, both in the hospital and in the community.

What is it you particularly like about medicine as a discipline?
You learn very early on that it is such a privilege to work in the medical field as you are intimately involved with the extremes of human emotion.  To gain trust and rapport with patients and their families, who let you into their lives, and share their secrets is definitely an honour.  The power of healing definitely extends beyond just giving medication and performing tests.