Putting theory into practice: 'I want to smash the stigma around rural health'

The group set foot in a hospital for the first time this week, and all are excited to put theory into practice.

Amelia McSorley has always wanted to study medicine, and is looking forward to working closely with patients.

"I've lived in a city my whole life, so it's exciting to get to know a community," she said.

"I really love people and hearing their stories. Scientifically medicine is always interesting, and always changing. It's the people that make it for me though.

"It's about being yourself and connecting with people."

For Catherine Hall it's a career where she feels she can "really make a difference".

"I don't do it for the science, but to work with people and help solve problems," she said.

"I've learned to be mindful of the socio-cultural environment the patients are in and how it affects their health.

Patrick Owen's background in psychology has influenced his move into medicine.

"I want to work hard to make a difference everyday, and provide physical and psychological support," he said.

"I want to smash the stigma around rural health and the perceived lack of resources."

Important hands on experience at medical practices and the South East Regional Hospital will allow the students to use the skills they have learned inside the classroom.

"Sometimes all you need to do is listen to someone," Jasmine Cummings said.

Mr Owen also said it is important for doctors to have an open ear and an open mind.

"I've learned to be comfortable in silence," he said.

Marie Smith said she still gets nervous when visiting a doctor, and is aware she will be interacting with people while they are "at their most vulnerable".

"I wanted to study medicine because I saw it as a challenge that will keep testing me, and allow me to help people along the way," James Byers said.

David Thawley said he's "always been a people person", and helping others is something he has always been interested in making a career pathway.