There's a story behind every medical student. Read about some of the inspiring journeys others have made from applicant to medical student to future physician.
Are you a WAMSS member or alumnus? Tell us your story by filling out this form!
Caitlin's experiences from the labs of Barry Marshall to the depths of the swimming pool have equipped her with a toolbox of skills to adapt and thrive in different medical environments.
From: Perth, WA
Previous Degree: Bachelor of Science, majoring in Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
Expected year of graduation: 2023
Interested in: Obstetrics & Gynaecology
What did you study before medicine?
I was fortunate enough to achieve an assured entry pathway into medicine after year 12, so I did my undergrad here at UWA, majoring in Pathology and Laboratory Medicine. I loved learning about the aetiology and progression of many diseases, and can say that it has definitely been helpful with studying medicine.
During part of my undergrad I also completed the Barry Marshall Microblitz Internship. This involved gaining some experience with culturing and testing antibiotic sensitivities in the Helicobacter pylori lab at QEII, as well as delving into providing science education at high schools around Perth and in Kalgoorlie.
What do you do when you're not studying?
When I’m not studying I can often be found by the poolside, though not relaxing! I work as a lifeguard at a leisure centre. I used to swim competitively when I was younger, and (obviously) have an interest in first aid so it’s a job that blends my interests.
I’ve had some experience in emergency response (maybe I’ll specialise in emergency medicine down the track, who knows?), but most of the time any first aid is just applying band-aids to little kids.
I also enjoy spending quality time with friends, reading a good book, learning a little French and getting cuddles from my super cute English Cocker Spaniel.
Journey to Medicine is an initiative by WAMSS to share medical students' personal stories about their journey into medicine, as well as their colourful lives outside of medicine.
For many of us, the journey to studying medicine isn't linear. The goal is to inspire and empower students who are thinking about pursuing a career in medicine.
Read more of our other stories:
This week we have Gaby, who’s story shows us that you can still maintain a life outside of medicine, adventuring, mountaineering, and being that ‘crazy horse girl’…
Sim has been travelling in parallel with the medical field: in bioengineering, cancer genetics, and heart regeneration research. Even after such diverse opportunities, she decided that it was time to revisit her interest in medicine.
Nathan’s journey started with a rush! 14 days before the start of the semester while relaxing in the Texas sun, his offer letter for UWA came in…
This week we have Adian Izwan, who has a love of dogs and big cats, which has somehow taken him to South Africa as part of his previous studies…
Shondell’s story is truly an inspirational one, coming from the northern beaches of Exmouth, to having her medical degree interrupted by a life-changing surgery.
With a previous life of working 40 hours as a software engineer not enough to satisfy his curiosity, Sam made the huge leap of quitting his job and embarking on his journey to medicine.
Caitlin’s experiences from the labs of Barry Marshall to the depths of the swimming pool have equipped her with a toolbox of skills to adapt and thrive in different medical environments.
Brendan is a mature-aged student who has really gone through the journey of academia, from completing a science degree, to a PhD, then becoming a teacher, and now finally graduating as a doctor! Learn more about his story and why he wants to pursue a career in Paediatric endocrinology in his feature.
Alexander’s journey is truly a windy one: starting off in a Bachelor of Arts before finding his passion (for now?) in pathology and microbiology. Danke schön for sharing!
For our first ever feature, we have Ella Forkin sharing her story about moving from Kalgoorlie to being actively involved in college, and now spending her time adventuring in Kununurra.