"I have been interested in the health sciences since secondary school, and I was attracted to the flexibility of the undergraduate program at Melbourne. Moreover, I hoped to develop myself academically by being placed in an incredibly intelligent, motivated cohort."
Allen started the Doctor of Medicine in 2021, after completing the Bachelor of Biomedicine and Diploma in Languages (German) in 2020 at the University of Melbourne. He is a Chancellor's Scholar and a Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholar.
. . .
Why the Bachelor of Biomedicine?
I have been interested in the health sciences since secondary school, and I was attracted to the flexibility of the undergraduate program at Melbourne. Moreover, I hoped to develop myself academically by being placed in an incredibly intelligent, motivated cohort.
I enjoy the breadth and depth of content we are exposed to, particularly due to its clinical relevance to our future careers. I think the choice of electives available in second year has been a highlight, as well as the anatomical dissections in Human Structure and Function.
Why the University of Melbourne?
Initially I had decided to study at the University of Melbourne due to its reputation of academic and research success, and my decision was reinforced by the flexibility of undergraduate degrees here. I particularly looked forward to studying German under the School of languages, having been exposed to its programs in high school.
Breadths:
The German subjects were compulsory parts of my Diploma, which has extended my knowledge of German language and culture far beyond the VCE level. I picked World Music Choir as a summer intensive as I have had a long-standing involvement with music ensembles, and interest in folk music at large.
University highlights
- Involvement in student clubs and activities (e.g. participating in the Biomedicine Student Society and Australasian Intervarsity Debating Championships)
- Studying a German Diploma, especially the cultural studies subjects
Transition to university:
My transition was initially rather difficult, due to very few of my friendship groups carrying over from high school. After a semester, I had largely overcome this barrier through participating in study groups and club events on campus. My transition has been assisted through Open Days and Stop 1.
Advice for students
University is the time to study your interests – you can experiment with a variety of subjects and learning styles, and there is never any harm in trying!
I would also encourage students to be as involved with campus life as possible (provided that it is accessible for them); my closest friendships at university have been established through my involvement in clubs.
I am inspired by the ability of university students to create tangible change, not only to their own personal development but to their communities as well. Moreover, I am inspired by our capability to never stop learning and adapting.