Planning Saw

It’s incredible to think that I am now in my seventh year living in Melbourne and studying at the University of Melbourne. I initially came to Melbourne because, as a 20-year-old, the city piqued my curiosity. Since arriving, I have learned so much about myself – whether it’s learning to live independently away from my family or immersing myself in everything health-related.

I chose the University of Melbourne for its strong reputation in medical and health sciences, and the Biomedicine program appealed to me because of its comprehensive and integrated approach to education. This degree has all the essential ingredients for a future career in professional health or biomedical research. The Biomedicine program intrigues and challenges, constantly offering new knowledge and insights to help us develop a deep understanding of the field of biomedical sciences. It’s like a rich pot of Japanese curry – you keep coming back for me!

This was also the reason I came back for Round 2: an Honours degree in General Practice. The COVID-19 pandemic inspired me to think about health from a population health perspective. The Department of General Practice gave me the opportunity to learn from general practitioners, statisticians, and researchers about how we can best deliver clinical care through the lens of population health.

The third (and let’s say final) round is Medicine. My Honours year led me to appreciate the importance of clinical care, and I wanted to deepen my understanding and ability to directly impact patient health. The Doctor of Medicine (MD) program at the University of Melbourne was naturally the next step. I have been able to build on my previous experience and continue to learn in an environment I’ve come to value greatly.

What I like most about my courses at the University of Melbourne is how they constantly push me to think critically and apply what I’ve learned in real-world settings. The Biomedicine degree was particularly fascinating because it covered such a broad spectrum of topics (from molecular biology to human physiology), providing a comprehensive understanding of how the body works. I was able to appreciate how these diverse subjects interconnect to paint a full picture of human health and disease.

My Honours year at the Department of General Practice added another layer to my education. It was eye-opening to see how research can directly influence patient care and healthcare policy. This experience taught me to approach health problems from a population perspective, and I developed skills in research methodology, data analysis, and evidence-based practice.

Now in the Doctor of Medicine (MD), I am finding the balance between theoretical and practical learning to be just right. The first year of the MD focuses heavily on theoretical knowledge, crucial for building a solid foundation. As I’ve progressed throughout the course, there has been a greater emphasis on clinical skills and practical experience. The hands-on learning through clinical placements has been both challenging and rewarding, allowing me to apply theoretical knowledge to patient care, develop diagnostic and communication skills, and understand the nuance of patient interactions. This exposure has not only enhanced my clinical skills but also strengthened my understanding of different medical specialties. It’s in these real-world settings that I’ve been able to truly appreciate the importance of empathy, communication, and teamwork in delivering high quality healthcare.

At this stage, I’m interested in pursuing a career in paediatrics or psychiatry. These fields appeal to me because thy offer the opportunity for meaningful interactions with patients, whether it’s supporting children’s growth and development or helping individuals navigate mental health challenges. However, if there’s one thing I’ve learned in Medicine, it’s to keep an open mind – never say never!

The University of Melbourne has provided me with diverse experiences across different specialties, which have been invaluable in shaping my career interests. My clinical placements have given me a taste of paediatrics and psychiatry, and I’ve found both areas deeply rewarding. I’ve had the privilege of working with teams at the Royal Children’s Hospital, where I’ve encountered a variety of paediatric conditions. I’ve also worked with the inpatient psychiatry team at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, gaining insight into the complexities of mental health care. Working with children and adolescents has been an especially fulfilling experience. My experiences of engaging with young patients and their families during critical moments in their lives have reinforced my passion for these fields. I am motivated to explore how I can make a positive impact in the lives of young people whether it be through paediatrics or psychiatry.

If you’re interested in learning about human health, the Biomedicine degree at the University of Melbourne will definitely tick all of those boxes. If you constantly find yourself asking, ‘Why?’ while learning, then research might be the path for you. If you have a passion for problem solving (e.g. a patient arrives with a fever, now I need to work out how best to diagnose and treat them), then pursuing Medicine could be your calling.

For future students, my advice is to explore different aspects of your interests. The University of Melbourne provides a supportive environment where you can discover your strengths, be curious, and embrace new challenges. Don’t be afraid to follow your questions and passions, as this will guide you towards the right career path.