Study Medicine

Ann and Patrick Sunderland headed into their first day of classes at The University of Notre Dame Australia (UNDA), Sydney’s School of Medicine recently, knowing they’ll have support from each other during this “new chapter in their life”.

The brother and sister from Canberra are part of the inaugural intake of 112 students to begin classes at the new purpose-built medical and nursing school facility opposite St Vincent’s Hospital in Darlinghurst.

Annie, 23, says she feels lucky to be able to share this important part of her life with someone she is so close to.

“It will be great to have Pat there with me and to have his support and friendship when studying, but also to have him to go out with on the weekends,” she said.

Patrick, 27, agrees. “Well, she takes very good notes and is conscientious so I will be relying on her summaries! No, seriously it is fantastic.

“Up to this point it has been great having each other through the entire process of getting here. Preparing for the GAMSAT, sitting for the exam itself, applying, preparing and then going through interviews - all of this has been carried out together,” he said.

“I am sure studying medicine itself will be the same in having the support from someone I have grown up with.”

Annie says her fascination for the human body drew her towards a career in medicine.
She has a Bachelor of Medical Science from Wollongong University, and Honours in Sports Medicine from the University of Canberra.

“I always knew that I wanted to become a doctor and through working various part-time jobs in nursing homes and with nursing agencies this became more and more apparent as I grew older,” she said.

Patrick came to study medicine in a more round about way having completed a Bachelor of Economics from The University of New South Wales and a Bachelor of Science for The Australian National University.

“For me there are many reasons why I want to become a doctor. I believe that I have a caring, empathetic nature so a career that allows me to express these qualities on a daily basis will be rewarding and satisfying,” he said.
 
Both Patrick and Ann are excited about starting at UNDA and believe it will offer a unique environment in which to study medicine.

“I wish to obtain a well rounded, comprehensive medical education. I believe the University will provide this and more,” said Patrick. “I am interested in learning more about theology and ethics, particularly in the context of practising medicine, and Notre Dame provides a unique opportunity to do this.”