Australian Government, Department of Defence

The Australian Medical Student Association (AMSA) holds a national convention to assist the thousands of undergraduate and graduate medical students throughout Australia.

This year the convention was held in Adelaide. Defence Force Recruiting (DFR) provided a variety of exhibits and information geared towards future doctors who may be considering a career with the ADF. As an Air Force undergraduate-sponsored medical student, I felt I might be able to provide a more personal perspective about the opportunities offered to medical students through sponsorships. I offered my assistance.

I attended the academic program each day and then assisted the DFR recruiters to answer the many questions asked.

Many myths circulate among medical students about conditions within the sponsorship scheme and service in the ADF as a doctor. I was delighted to bust these myths. Some of the frequently asked questions included:
When does my Return Of Service Obligation begin?
Where do I my internship?
Will I be paid my overtime during my hospital training years?
What specialty training opportunities are provided?

Such questions could not be answered by DFR. As a member on the scheme, I was well-versed on the answers and better-placed to reply.

I found the experience rewarding, including the chance to become familiar with wearing the uniform, and I felt valued as a fellow ADF member. The week was highlighted by the opportunity for me to meet and talk with WGCDR Greg Hampson, SQNLDR Glenn Pascoe, and LCDR Kate Manderson from the RAAF Institute of Aviation Medicine.

For more on the undergraduate scheme, visit www.defence.gov.au/raaf/undergraduate/index.htm