My name is Bradley Smith, I am a Wiradjuri and Gomeroi man. I have a background in Paramedic Science and I am currently in my second year as a Doctor of Medicine student at the University of Queensland. My goal is to specialise in General Practice and work as a General Practitioner in a community-controlled Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Clinic.

Growing up I heard a lot of stories from family about their negative interactions with healthcare institutions. Due to this I witnessed a lot of my family battle with different medical conditions, never engaging with healthcare unless it was a necessity, and by then it was too late and their options for treatment were limited.

My contribution to Indigenous health will be through providing a culturally safe space as a GP, working with Mob to empower them to be the leaders in their own health care. I want to foster strong relationships within the community I’m working in and be that doctor that Mob can come to about anything. Increasing health literacy within the community and adopting a whole person care model within my practice will hopefully lead to better health outcomes for my Indigenous patients and families.

My third year of medical school has been one of tremendous growth, challenge, and reward. The transition to full-time clinical placements came with a steep learning curve, long hours, and the constant adjustment to new teams and expectations. Balancing academic performance, personal wellbeing, and clinical responsibilities tested both my endurance and adaptability.

There were moments of both triumph and struggle. One of the most memorable highs was passing my final OSCE and long case exam in general medicine — milestones that brought immense relief and pride after months of intense preparation. They reminded me just how far I have come in developing the clinical reasoning and communication skills essential to patient care.

But alongside these highs were the inevitable challenges of learning through failure. Performing procedures for the first time — whether inserting a cannula, taking blood, or performing a catheterization — often came with frustration and self-doubt. Each setback, however, was also a lesson in humility, patience, and perseverance. Over time, I learned to view these moments not as failures, but as steps toward competence and confidence.

Now, as I move into my final year, I feel an overwhelming sense of excitement and gratitude. Third year taught me resilience and reflection — to celebrate progress while embracing imperfection as part of growth. These lessons have given me not only medical knowledge but also a deeper understanding of the kind of doctor I aspire to become.

I want to express my heartfelt thanks to the Rotary Club for your continued support throughout my studies. Your generosity has helped sustain me through the demanding moments and inspired me to carry forward the values of service and community that Rotary embodies. Your encouragement truly makes a difference in the lives of students like me who are working toward a future in healthcare.