I am a proud Turrbal woman and a determined first year Doctor of Medicine student at Flinders University who aims to provide evidence-based and holistic care. I have a strong interest in cardiovascular health and Rhematic heart fever. I am committed to improving indigenous health and wellbeing through all stages of life. While working in a rural hospital I discovered I was most passionate working in and interreacting with patients and clinical education on Rhematic Heart Disease and Cardiovascular Disease. After working in the hospital this had sparked my interest to study medicine. I have always been intrigued by anatomy and physiology of how the body works; this one massive machine running off different systems.

I always love challenges, especially those that come with good rewards at the end such as helping others and promoting healthier living. Every person involved in the patients’ healthcare journey has an impact and being a part of this journey felt like I was making a difference, however big or small.

As a future Rural Generalist coming from country Southwest Queensland, I am committed to supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients help close the gap with healthcare and provide a culturally safe space. This includes addressing systemic barriers such as limited access to healthcare facilities, historical trauma, and disparities in healthcare resources. By advocating for policy changes and promoting community-based healthcare initiatives. I aspire to become a positive role model for my family and my community. I hope I can encourage other people to pursue their dreams of working in healthcare.

After completing Semester 1 of this year, I have adapted well and adjusted to fast paced learning. I am keen to continue advancing my knowledge as a student. With each new semester, I look forward to the opportunity to build upon the foundational skills and concepts I have already learned. A highlight for Semester 1 was attending the Psychiatry PIF forum located in Canberra, this was a fantastic opportunity to meet other medical students and professionals passionate about mental health. One goal I have set for this year was to attend more conferences and college events this is to see what interests me. So far this year I have been inspired to attended a “women in surgery” night. Within the semester I had also completed my Nursing Placement within a surgical ward.  I was able to see how hard nurses work be able to manage complex patients, get exposure to different medications, attend to tasks as well as well as wound and burns care. During this time, I was able to see a variety of different and complex situations involving patients.  This placement helped me integrate theoretical learning with practical application developing professional skills.

Next semester I look forward to completing Cardiovascular block, physical examinations and medical mentorship. It will be exciting to put into practice the skills I have been learning in Clinical Skills. Over the Christmas break I am planning on visiting East Africa and Volunteering at local general practice clinic to experience other cultures within medicine and developing my clinical skills. In addition to this throughout the semester I have been involved in coaching and playing netball at my local club. These events have helped me network with other medical students and professionals, understand more about different specialities and find what interests me.