AMSA 2023 Internship Guide

letter from:
RURAL INTERN
Hey there final years! Hope all is going well and you are taking
lots of time for yourself I’m Lachie and I have just completed
my first rotation at Echuca Regional Health through the
Loddon Mallee VRGP Program. I’d had really positive
experiences during University throughout the region and could
think of nothing better than starting working life in the region.
L A C H
L A N
Honestly, I hadn’t done any placement at Echuca, I just thought I’d take the jump.
But that’s the beauty of working rurally- if you do take the jump, you will be
welcomed with open arms and your anxieties will quickly dissipate.
A few things for you to think about as you decide upon your preferences and
make the transition from student to the workforce (and you are required to be at
work..and not leave early)! How much time do you want to spend commuting? Do
you want good relationships with my colleagues who you’ll be seeing every single
day now? Do you want to be doing heaps of cover and night shifts? Do you want
to have a good work life balance?
In my first rotation I have woken up at 7.30 am each day, had 2 half days per week,
worked no cover/night shifts and really enjoyed going to work due to the people
and patients I am working with. I have gotten to perform multiple procedures,
had input into all my team’s patient’s care and been able to continue my learning
with supportive supervisors. I have also joined a local sporting team and gone to
trivia every Thursday at one of the local pubs.
I don’t believe I would’ve had all of these luxuries had I not chosen to complete a
VRGP Internship. It has made the transition to working life almost seamless- and I
would strongly encourage you to give it some thought. If you are on the fence,
take the jump! The scope of practice and chances to upskill rapidly are plentiful
and the quality of supervisors and relationships you are able to form with them
are second to none.
If you would like to have a chat about the VRGP or anything internship related
please feel free to contact me at lachlancarroll1@gmail.com
I do not regret choosing a VRGP internship for one second and it has so far been a
rewarding and extremely positive experience- neither will you!
Lachlan