Toowoomba medical student wins national award

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TOOWOOMBA medical student Cicy Li is the 2015 Telstra Health Rural Doctors Association of Australia Medical Student of the Year.

Currently studying at the University of Adelaide, Ms Li said her interest in rural health grew from her love of Toowoomba.

“I fell in love with the friendliness of the people, the tight-knit community and the relaxed rural atmosphere” Ms Li said.

Her work in indigenous and rural health was recognised at the national rural doctors conference, Rural Medicine Australia.

Medical placements have taken Ms Li across Australia, to indigenous communities including Yalata, Coober Pedy and Alice Springs.

She said she enjoyed every placement with the opportunity for hands-on learning.

“Through medical school, I was lucky enough to become involved in several indigenous health projects which sparked my interest,” she said.

“In the future, I would love to return as a doctor to work in the indigenous communities I have visited as a student.”

CEO of Rural Health Workforce Australia Greg Mundy said Ms Li was a great role model for students who have an interest in closing the gap.

“She is passionate, leads by example and encourages others to follow in her footsteps,” he said.

“Cicy has been a strong advocate on campus for rural health at university.”

She was involved in the Insight Indigenous Health Program, working to educate students on indigenous cultural awareness.

The medical student is in her sixth year of university and was recognised for a strong interest in rural medicine and dedication to encouraging others to pursue a rural medical career.

Previous award winners

  • 2014; Laura Sharley, Adelaide
  • 2013; Jerry Abraham Alex, who was studying at James Cook University and on placement at Mackay
  • 2012; James Roth, Orange
  • 2011; Francesca Garnett, Ballarat
  • 2010; Heather Hanks, Mudgee