Originally from Singapore, Veanna took a gap year before starting her studies, working in a clinic during the height of COVID-19 and dedicating time to non-profits and tutoring. This experience further cemented her passion for healthcare and her determination to become a doctor.<\/p>\n
\u201cI had a gap year in 2022, working in a clinic during peak COVID-19 surges and tutoring secondary school students. I was also part of executive committees for two non-profits in Singapore\u2014SGExams as the Head of Academics and forYOUths, which I co-founded and was the Director of Internal Affairs and Outreach. Through my experiences, I had the chance to learn lessons I would have never and meet people who inspired and changed my perspective. That year taught me time management, work-life balance, and helped me discover my limits. I came out stronger and more determined, knowing that I\u2019m made to be a doctor.”<\/em><\/p>\n Choosing Flinders was a deliberate choice for Veanna, who had dreamed of studying in Australia since Grade 9. Her decision was driven by a combination of environmental, academic, and lifestyle factors.<\/p>\n \u201cI didn\u2019t want a fast-paced city like Sydney or Melbourne. After living in a bustling city like Singapore, I craved nature and a change of pace. Adelaide, with its beaches, festivals, and four seasons, called to me. When it came to universities, I wanted one with inspiring educators, a strong student-to-teacher ratio, and teaching methodologies. That is when I discovered Flinders and it was the only university I applied to.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Once at Flinders, Veanna found the student support system to be a cornerstone of her journey, describing it as \u201cincredible.\u201d She notes the warmth and openness of the staff.<\/p>\n \u201cThere are so many avenues to reach out and provide feedback. FUSA [Flinders University Student Association]<\/a> has been the greatest support. As a topic representative throughout my two years, I\u2019ve worked closely with FUSA, college heads and deans, University board members, and everyone is so kind and supportive, always directing you to the right resources. There are so many opportunities provided for students to voice out their opinions and help make the university a more student-driven space.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Flinders\u2019 wellbeing services have also played a vital role in Veanna\u2019s journey.<\/p>\n \u201c<\/em>Oasis<\/em><\/a> [Flinders\u2019 Student Community Wellbeing Centre] has been a major part of my wellbeing journey. I\u2019ve had the chance to work in the wellbeing space as a 2024 Wellbeing Ambassador, promoting resources that support mental health and aid in creating a safe space to create conversation and change. <\/em><\/p>\n My peers and family, both back home and here, are my rocks\u2014they keep me going through homesickness, stress, and tough times. We take care of each other, celebrating our smallest achievements and festivals and being each other\u2019s shoulder to cry on during harder times.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Flinders has offered Veanna various leadership and community roles, including Co-Producing the MedRevue with the Flinders Medical Students\u2019 Society<\/a> and organising the Birthing Kits Assembly Day as the Senior Sexual and Mental Health Officer for the Health and Human Rights\u2019 Group. She also served on the AMSA Global Health Conference’s Academics Subcommittee, fostering discussions on climate health, structural health determinants, and women\u2019s reproductive health. Her commitment to community service was celebrated with the StudyAdelaide International Student Award for Community Engagement.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.flinders.edu.au\/mph-news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/79\/2024\/10\/Birthing-Kits-Foundation-Assembly-Day-1.jpg\")
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