Medicine is a family affair for an East Grampians Health Service employee who has commenced his first year of medical studies in Ararat.

Alex Van Opstal, the son of the late Dr Eric Van Opstal and EGHS perioperative unit associate nurse unit manager Jo Van Opstal, has joined Stawell’s Augusta Akaogu in commencing first-year studies, along with second-year student and EGHS radiographer Avneet Chand.

Both Mr Van Opstal and Ms Akaogu will complete the first two years of their MD studies on site at EGHS through the Deakin University Doctor of Medicine Rural Training Stream.

An opportunity to study medicine while remaining connected to family and friends prompted Mr Van Opstal to apply for the Deakin program, while Ms Akaogu said she was drawn to Deakin’s focus on community-oriented medicine and a chance to train in rural settings where doctors could make a visible difference.

Mr Van Opstal has a Bachelor of Biomedical Science and completed his secondary schooling at Ararat’s Marian College prior to his university studies in Melbourne and Geelong.

Ms Akaogu is a registered nurse and has worked as an associate nurse unit manager, ANUM, at EGHS, and at a GP practice in Stawell.

“Before medicine, I worked in healthcare, which gave me insight into both patient care and the broader health system, and I will continue to do some part-time work around my study load, but keep hours limited so it doesn’t compromise my learning,” she said.

Both students said they were enjoying the course structure, support of their teachers and small class sizes, as well as meeting new people with different experiences and backgrounds.

“The structure works well for me, especially the combination of small group learning and clinical skills’ sessions,” Ms Akaogu said.

“Lecturers and tutors are approachable and keen to support students, particularly those training rurally.” 

Ms Akaogu said managing her study load was her biggest challenge, including trying to work to support herself while studying.

She said she planned to work in the local area when qualified.

“I like the breadth of practice, continuity with patients, and the sense of community,” she said.

Mr Van Opstal encouraged people with a clinical background to apply for the Deakin Rural Training Stream.

“Deakin appreciates the unique qualities people bring from their different careers and how they can be applied to medical practice,” he said.

“You can do anything if you work hard enough.”

Ms Akaogu agreed a clinical background was an asset.

“Your communication skills, understanding of the system, and comfort in clinical environments will help you from day one,” she said.

“I would encourage you to back yourself, be honest about the workload, and seek support early. 

“Rural training offers rich experiences that you might not get in metropolitan settings.

“Rural training is demanding but rewarding; you’re trusted with real responsibility and become part of the community,” Ms Akaogu said.

“If you value close-knit teams, broad clinical exposure, and the chance to make a tangible impact, the Deakin Rural Training Stream is worth serious consideration.”

People interested in learning more about the Deakin University Rural Training Stream can visit www.deakin.edu.au/faculty-of-health/school-of-medicine/study-with-us/ rural-training-stream.

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