Date: June 2025
Location: Chinchilla and Miles
University: University of Queensland
Field of Study: Occupational Therapy

What did you enjoy most about your rural placement?

The diversity of people who we saw. It was everything from paediatrics, to adults to aged care. We worked across hospitals, medical clinics and private aged care homes; this experience was amazing. Also made some friends locally!

Would you recommend a rural placement to other students? Why?

Yes!

I think there is so much to learn from going rural. You learn about yourself personally and professionally in a way that I would argue cannot be learnt from the city. You experience another aspect of Australia. And everyone out there is so supportive. I really loved it.

What are your top tips for students considering a rural placement?

Jump at every opportunity given to you. Explore the surrounding towns, get involved with community events and make the most of it. I didn’t come home for 9 weeks and it was my first time moving out of home. As scary as that was, I would recommend that same decision to other people because I really made the most of it.

Did you stay in SQRH accommodation or have interactions with SQRH staff?

Yes, I did. The staff were amazing. For a few minor things that needed to be troubleshooted, they were always available.

Any other information or notes you'd like to share?

I recommend this experience to anyone.