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Tim Yu

Tim Yu is pursuing a Doctor of Medicine and Surgery at the ANU Medical School, Australian National University.

What were you doing before you commenced your postgraduate qualifications at ANU?
Before starting at ANU, I completed a Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology at the University of Hong Kong (HKU). During my final year, I sat the MCAT and used my score to apply for medical programs, including the MChD at ANU.

Why did you choose ANU?
My decision came down to a few key factors. First, the MChD program itself stood out to me. With a cohort of about 100 students and only a dozen international students, the program fosters a close-knit community where you can build real relationships with peers and teaching staff. That support system helped me a lot during my first year and I know it will continue to make a difference.
Second, The location of the ANU was important. It is the only university in the capital region that offers a medical degree, which means less competition and better job security after graduation. This is especially significant for international students, who often find themselves lower on the priority list for internship placements.
Lastly, I considered life in Canberra. Coming from a fast-paced, urbanised city like Hong Kong, I wasn’t sure I’d adjust to the quieter, more rural feel. At first, weekends felt too quiet, but over time I found the calm atmosphere helped me focus. Now, I genuinely enjoy the slower pace and balance it brings to my lifestyle.

What professional development opportunities have you had at ANU?
ANU Medical School is well connected to the healthcare system, which opens up opportunities to engage with professionals early on. In our first week, we attended the AMA welcome event, where I met doctors from different specialties. I was fortunate to connect with a surgeon whom I shadowed throughout the year. That experience was self-driven, and not every student takes that path, but it was a great opportunity.
In second year, we had mandatory placements where we shadowed allied health professionals to gain a broader understanding of the healthcare system. We also participated in one-week rural placements in both first and second year. My group went to Bega, where we learned from rural doctors and gained insight into the challenges faced by rural communities.

What do you like most about your student experience so far?
The best experience so far has been Med Camp at the start of first year. It’s a student-organised weekend trip to the coast, giving our cohort the chance to relax and get to know one another. Everyone was open and excited to socialise, and it was the perfect setting to form strong early connections. It was probably the most relaxing weekend I’ve had, especially since it was right before the full workload kicked in.

What opportunities have been made available to you during your degree?
There have been countless opportunities to learn, not just from expert clinicians, doctors, and allied health workers, but also from peers and even our silent teachers in the anatomy lab. We also get the chance to teach, whether by assisting in undergraduate health courses or leading problem-based learning sessions. These experiences reinforce our own understanding while helping others learn too.

What extracurricular activities did you participate in at ANU?
Outside of study, I go to the gym regularly and spend time gaming. I also love catching up with friends at different cafés around Canberra, especially the ones near the hospital. From time to time, I play sports like archery, tennis, ice skating, and badminton with friends. I wouldn’t say I’m great at any of them, but it’s always fun.

Did you receive any prizes or scholarships while studying at ANU?
Yes, I was fortunate to receive the Dean’s Global Scholarship at the beginning of my first year.

What’s next after you complete your study?
Almost all graduates, myself included, will go straight into medical internships. These usually last up to two years, depending on the hospital. I’m keen to explore options in other states, though I’ve kept Canberra as a backup, even if it’s competitive as an international applicant.

What is your favourite thing about living in Canberra?
Canberra offers a unique balance between energy and calm. Weekdays are active and full of purpose, but weekends and evenings are peaceful and relaxing. It creates a great atmosphere for studying and living, especially compared to the intensity of larger cities.

This time next year, where do you see yourself?
This time next year, I’ll likely be on clinical placements in the hospital. I’ll be rotating through general practice, emergency medicine, and various internal medicine and surgical specialties. I’m excited to start applying everything we’ve learned so far in real clinical settings.

Any advice for future students?
Figure out your study method early. The first year is an information overload as the course gets everyone up to speed before diving into individual body systems. Knowing how you learn best will make a big difference. Relying on cramming or pure memorisation is not only inefficient, but it can really hold you back in the long run.