For Syeda Amel Safi, medicine was part of her upbringing. “I grew up running around clinics and hearing discussions about medical care at home,” she shares.
Her parents, both General Practitioners, inspired her early interest in the field. But it was her family’s move to Darwin in 2014 that solidified her path. Staying in the Northern Territory allowed Amel to pursue her dream of becoming a doctor while remaining close to her family and the community she loves.
Why Darwin and Flinders Were the Right Choice
When it came to selecting a medical school, Amel valued proximity and support. Flinders University’s Northern Territory Medical Program stood out. “The small class sizes were a bonus,” she says. While it meant more visibility, it also fostered a close-knit cohort. “Everyone wanted the same thing—for us all to succeed. That support was invaluable.”
Staying in Darwin also provided the comfort of family and friends. “Medicine is a tough course, but it would have been even harder without my local support network,” she reflects. Amel is proud of the struggles she overcame and the person she’s become through her journey.
Embracing the Challenges of Clinical Placements
Amel’s clinical placements were the highlight of her medical studies. She recalls her time in Katherine, a three-hour drive from Darwin, as a transformative experience. “It was my first time living away from home for so long. I was nervous but also excited,” she admits.
The placement offered a mix of primary care clinics and hospital rotations in obstetrics, gynaecology, and general medicine. Despite her initial fears of rural isolation, she quickly adapted. “The close-knit teams and supportive environment in Katherine made it an incredible learning experience,” she says. She also appreciated the opportunity to return home on long weekends, which helped her recharge.
The Day-to-Day of Rural Medicine
Amel’s days during placement were structured yet flexible. Mornings started early to beat traffic and prepare for the day ahead. She set daily goals, whether mastering a clinical skill or learning about a new condition, and kept them adaptable. “Opportunities can be unpredictable in medicine,” she notes.
Her experiences weren’t just about clinical knowledge. “The kindness and encouragement of the teams I worked with shaped my outlook on life,” she says. These lessons, coupled with her medical training, have left a lasting impact.
Looking Ahead: A Future in Medicine
Amel’s future is wide open. While she has a strong interest in ophthalmology, her background in public health keeps her options broad. “I want to explore where my passions take me,” she says.
For prospective students, Amel offers heartfelt advice: “Medicine is a privilege. You encounter people at their most vulnerable, and your actions can change lives. The trust patients place in us must be honoured with care and responsibility.”
As Amel celebrates her graduation, she carries forward the values, knowledge, and experiences she’s gained, ready to make her mark in the medical field.