Exam Preparation:
The Sprint and The Marathon
With Jessica Symes 60 minute Keynote
Science of Stress Mental Toughness Your Action Plan: Case Study
BH: What was involved in making that switch?
MH: I talked to friends and colleagues from previous workplaces about switching to medicine, including studying and working in medicine, being a mature aged student/junior doctor and working in medicine as a mum (I’d had my first child by the time I started my medical degree). The application process involved an exam as well as an interview. This was followed by four years of studying at university, then two to three years of work as a junior doctor.
The study and learning continues. I am now a fourth-year registrar in radiation oncology at Liverpool Hospital and will be sitting more (and my final) exams in 2018.
BH: Does this new role/industry give you more purpose and if so why?
MH: My new path gives me a different purpose. Rowing was very much goal driven for myself and my crew. Working as a doctor, is less about my goals and achievements (although these are still important to get through the rigorous training program), but is more about providing the best care for my patients.
I try to think of my patients each as a whole person, taking into account their individual circumstances in order to give the best care for them. In addition, there are many skills I developed as a rower that are applicable to working as a doctor – teamwork, dedication, and communication to name but a few.
BH: Why oncology?
MH: I am currently training to be a radiation oncologist. I became interested in this specialty during my resident year and contacted a number of the departments in Sydney and met with radiation oncologists and spent time in clinics.
The radiation oncologists I met were inspiring people with an interest in clinical practice as well as teaching and research to improve patient care and outcomes. Radiation oncology is a great mix of clinical work, technology and opportunities for research. Oncology is a challenging specialty, but being able to help people and their families through such a trying time is rewarding.
"There are many skills I developed as a rower that are applicable to working as a doctor – teamwork, dedication, and communication."
Monique Heinke