The cost of living is rising, yet student placement hours are not reducing, and the role of medical student remains unpaid. Everyone has to learn at some point, but it cannot be denied that the demands of placement, compounded by assignments and study time, make it difficult to find time for paid employment. I currently have two jobs, one at the hospital at the switchboard and front desk, the other being a work-from-home administrative role with a cardiothoracic research institute. Being a casual in the former role, I have no guaranteed shifts, and I also struggle to give availability due to placement timetable often being released late and being subject to change constantly. The Australian Rotary Rural Health Scholarship would alleviate the stress of trying to pick up shifts in this role, and the subsequent exhaustion after working until 11pm and needing to be back at the hospital the following day for 8am placement. It would help me put the energy into my placement that it deserves, as well as have more time for study in preparation for my final exams.

As someone with a disability, I am disproportionately affected by fatigue. It also comes with the un-negotiable costs of specialist appointments and medications. This scholarship would assist with these costs and keeping my employment duties at an amount that are more manageable for my condition.

Besides attending placement and working, I have been and will continue to be involved in student advocacy for my cohort of medical students and students with disabilities, both within WSU medicine and WSU generally. I derive significant meaning and purpose from my roles as year representative, Western Sydney Medical Society Disability Officer, and WSU Disability Collective Secretary. This scholarship would allow me to put more time and effort into these roles through reducing my need to work and financial burden.

These roles are also important in improving the experiences of myself and fellow students, including those at rural clinical schools. My role as year representative has specifically allowed me to promote Lismore as a rural placement site, ensuring the students coming to the area are enthusiastic and motivated to become a part of the local community.

Perhaps the biggest thing I am concerned about for next year is the longevity of my car, which will be 18 years old in January. I am highly anticipating a breakdown and needing to buy a car, which is a significant expense for anyone, let-alone a student who only holds casual employment. Without a car, it is virtually impossible to attend placement in rural areas. In Lismore, where I am based, public transport is limited and there are no bus stops within walking distance of my accommodation. Buses also do not go to all locations students are expected to attend for placement. This scholarship would reduce the stress associated with this cost and ensure there is no break in my ability to attend placement next year.