Bush Bursary Program a winner for UNSW med students

Medical student Mona Sanjeev (pictured) says she has been ‘‘blown away’’ by Deniliquin and the Bush Bursary program.

The Deniliquin Council initiative encourages medical professionals to the area to spend time at local medical practices and health-related businesses.

The ultimate goal is to encourage medical students to consider joining a rural practice after graduating, and potentially in Deniliquin.

Mona’s two-week stay in Deniliquin ends tomorrow.

During her time here, the 21 year-old spent time working at Deniliquin Hospital, Deniliquin Medical Centre, Shiloh Medical Centre and Charlotte St Dental Clinic.

She also spent time with physios and made home visits with an occupational therapist.

‘‘It has been brilliant,’’ Mona said.

‘‘I’ve been staying with the De Silva family, who live in Deniliquin.

‘‘This is my first time in Deni. . . everyone has been so friendly, I would love to come back.

‘‘I think it’s the reason why I am putting off going back to Sydney on Saturday, because I have enjoyed it so much.

‘‘I have realised how important general practice is in the country and that this (the country) is where I want to work (once qualified).’’

Mona made Deniliquin one of her top preferences after she met Nivanka De Silva—who is from Deniliquin — at university.

Originally from Armidale, Mona is studying a Bachelor of Medical Studies and a Doctor of Medicine at the University of NSW in Sydney.

‘‘I have finished my third year of university and have three to go,’’ she said.

‘‘This past year we have started working in hospitals.

‘‘Hospitals in Sydney are so big and you tend to be invisible and not get acknowledged.

‘‘In Deni they let you do so much more.

‘‘I was able to witness a caesarian while in Deniliquin and it was unbelievable.

 ‘‘I’d seen one before, but it wasn’t the same.’’

Originally published in the Deniliquin Pastoral Times, Deniliquin NSW on 23 Jan 2015

Find out more about the Bush Bursary Scholarship here. Applications close on Friday 29 May 2015