"These skills have helped me to apply current evidence in my daily practice, approach clinical problems more confidently, and educate patients more effectively. It has also inspired me to explore new research opportunities."
Distance from the University of Melbourne was no study barrier for Max, a clinical pharmacist based in British Columbia, Canada. With a desire to enhance his cancer knowledge and develop research skills to improve care, Max completed the Master of Cancer Sciences 100% online, and topped his year group in 2022.
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What is your current role?
I work as a Clinical Pharmacist (Oncology) in British Columbia, Canada. My primary role is to supervise the safe preparation and dispensing of oral and intravenous cancer medications, as well, as assessing, monitoring, and educating patients to ensure their systemic cancer treatment(s) are safe and effective. I work closely with a multidisciplinary team of nurses, physicians, pharmacy technicians, and clerks. I also help to answer medication-related queries from my colleagues.
Most of all, I enjoy building relationships with my patients and collaborating with my fellow clinicians.
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Why did you decide to study the Master of Cancer Science?
I wanted to enhance my evidence-based knowledge of cancer care and develop research skills to become a better cancer clinician and educator.
Prior to starting the Master of Cancer Sciences course, I was working in my current position as a clinical pharmacist in an adult ambulatory oncology clinic at a regional hospital in British Columbia, Canada.
The most appealing aspect of the course was the ability to complete it wholly online. Without this option, I wouldn’t be able to pursue a graduate degree at this point in my life.
I chose the University of Melbourne because of its global reputation, the multidisciplinary approach, the high-quality online learning tools, and course structure.
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What did you like most about the course?
Interacting with my peers, course coordinators, and tutors in the webinars and subject discussion forums. Learning from and with people from a variety of educational and professional backgrounds was very valuable and rewarding.
I was amazed at how invested the course coordinators and tutors were in our learning and development.
The most challenging aspect was balancing my studies with work and family life. However, my family and friends were very supportive. My wife and two daughters were my biggest cheerleaders and kept me focused and motivated. The time difference between Australia and Canada also posed a unique challenge, but most of the learning activities could be completed on my own schedule.
I developed skills in data analysis, quantitative statistics, searching and interpreting scientific literature, critical thinking, and scientific communication.
These skills have helped me to apply current evidence in my daily practice, approach clinical problems more confidently, and educate patients more effectively. It has also inspired me to explore new research opportunities.
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What kinds of work integrated learning or practical experience did you participate in your degree, and how did they impact your development?
A major component of the course was completion of a capstone project. This gave me the opportunity to design a research project around my interest in patients’ medication experiences. I gained invaluable experience developing a testable hypothesis, analysing and interpreting data, and communicating my results.
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What advice do you have for future students?
Go for it! The time and hard work are worth it. And don’t be afraid to put yourself out there – ask questions, participate in learning activities, and make use of the resources the university offers students.