Georgia Stevens

The Bachelor of Biomedicine is excellent preparation to study medicine, and the University of Melbourne is home to Australia’s leading medical school.

I have always been interested in human health and investigating the solution to issues that impact the wellbeing of others, especially in the neuroscience space. The Neuroscience major offered by the University of Melbourne was of particular interest to me, but this pathway also offered me the ability to explore and build knowledge in other fields, such as pharmacology and anatomy, which are also key areas in the Biomedicine discipline.

The Melbourne Curriculum provided me with the opportunity to have a more holistic undergraduate degree. I have been able to complement my studies in human health and disease with breadth subjects in the creative arts. The opportunity to explore a wide range of disciplines has been wonderful and is something that makes the University of Melbourne stand out to me.

I was pleasantly surprised by how flexible the Bachelor of Biomedicine’s study plan can be. Being able to complete intensive classes over the university breaks have allowed me to reduce my semester workload and engage in more work and social activities where I have been able to build my professional and social networks.

These networks are important support systems at uni. They have assisted in my learning journey and helped inform important decision making about my studies and future goals. For instance, older students are always willing to share their wisdom and experience, and staff are always available to help me navigate the parts of uni that are ‘uncharted waters’ to me (e.g. research, internships, entry requirements for medicine).

The hands-on learning opportunities are another highlight of my UniMelb journey. For example, by having class in the Doherty Institute teaching labs, I have been able to engage in a highly immersive learning experience. I believe this has given me a deeper understanding and appreciation of the real-world application of what we learn in Biomedicine. Outside of class, one of my favourite experiences has been volunteering for the Good Friday Appeal’s Teddy Bear Hospital. I really enjoyed introducing children to a positive experience of healthcare settings.

I’m also pleased I have been able to build positive study habits by further developing my ability to collaborate, self-reflect and engage in critical thinking about the course material and my own approach to learning.

Finally, the proximity of the University of Melbourne to the CBD and key biomedical research facilities (Melbourne Biomedical Precinct) has been a key element of my studies. The public transport system is well-connected and convenient to use. I can explore and engage in a broad scope of health and biomedical science in Parkville and then commute home, go to work, or have fun in the city.

After completing my studies in the Bachelor of Biomedicine, I would like to study the Doctor of Medicine. I am particularly interested in exploring the field of neurology.

My studies have provided me with opportunities to meet and hear from industry leaders in different aspects of health and biomedical science. This has expanded my understanding of where my degree may take me and reinforced my passion for healthcare and ambition to study medicine.

I encourage future students to explore a range of subjects from various disciplines to make the most of the University of Melbourne’s resources. University is a great time to learn, grow and understand different academic fields. It is important to enter your studies with an open mindset, as opportunities present themselves in unexpected ways which can lead to incredible learning moments.