DO YOUR MEDICAL DEGREE IN DUBBO

Applications are currently open for The University of Sydney Doctor of Medicine (MD) program in Dubbo. Laura Mattiske is one of the current firstyear students from the Central West. Growing up near Forbes, studying a rural health medical program was a natural choice.

WHEN DID YOU DECIDE TO STUDY MEDICINE?

I’ve always been interested in becoming a doctor, but it was during my undergraduate degree in medical science that I realised that I really wanted to pursue studying medicine and a career as a doctor.

WHAT INTERESTED YOU ABOUT STUDYING IN DUBBO?

Being from the country and wanting to eventually work in the country, I was always interested in studying at a rurally based medical school. I was excited to get the offer to study in Dubbo and the opportunities it would provide to learn more about practicing rurally while making connections with doctors and Specialists in the region that I might work with one day.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS SO FAR?

1. I have found the small cohort size has made it easy to build a social support network when moving to Dubbo as a new town.

2. I am really enjoying living onsite, it has helped me get to know the other students and the accommodation is really nice and affordable. All the bedrooms have a double bed, desk and we have our own heating/cooling. I only share a bathroom with one other person and the lounge room and kitchen are all nicely furnished.

3. We are already having sessions in Dubbo Hospital which has been great to get a feel for what it’s like, particularly as I haven’t spent a lot of time in hospitals. We’ve had opportunities to spend time talking to patients who have been very generous with their time and open to discussing their medical concerns and diagnoses, which is really beneficial for our learning. 4. I have also loved getting to know Dubbo since moving here. There have been so many opportunities to meet new people, especially through sport and other community activities.

The Dubbo Stream has 24 positions available and is offered at the School of Rural Health. To apply for the program, students must be eligible for Commonwealth Supported Places and pathways are available for Indigenous students and those with rural backgrounds.

If you are thinking about applying or want more information, contact us on (02) 5809 9400 or ruralinfo@sydney.edu.au