Date: October 2026
Location: Roma
University: The University of Queensland
Field of Study: Occupational Therapy

What did you enjoy most about your rural placement?

What I enjoyed most about my rural placement was getting the chance to really immerse myself in the local community and way of life. Outside of placement, I joined local sports, went to community and social events, and got to know families from across the area, which made me feel really welcomed and connected. Professionally, I also loved seeing how different rural healthcare can be compared with metro settings, particularly the broader scope of practice, greater autonomy and need to be adaptable when working with unique challenges and fewer resources. Living in student accommodation was another highlight, as I made close friendships with other students that I know I’ll carry well beyond placement.

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

Yes, 100%. Although choosing a rural placement can sound a bit daunting compared with staying in a metropolitan area, the support provided by SQRH and the other students living in the accommodation made the adjustment so much easier than I expected. I genuinely think there is very little reason not to give it a go. Even if you don’t see yourself working rurally in the future, it is only a small period of time and gives you such a different experience to what you would get in a metro setting. Every student I met had such a positive experience, and the friendships, community connections and professional learning were honestly some of the best parts of placement, and none of us ever wanted to leave! I am so grateful that I chose to go rural and would 100% recommend it to any student considering it

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

Look at the accomodation online when choosing where you'd like to go.

Say yes to everything! Even if its not your preferred sporting or social event, go along anyway!

Don't worry about going to a place where you don't know anyone. There will be so many other students in the same situation who will become your best friends.

Reach out to the staff at SQRH if you have any concerns at all, they are able to provide so much valuable support, whether it is logistics, wellbeing, or financial concerns.

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

Yes, I stayed in SQRH accomodation and it was a brilliant experience. I really appreciated being provided with such lovely accomodation with fellow students, and it was the reason that I was able to afford to go rural for my placement.

I didn't have any interactions with SQRH staff whilst on my placement, but I met the team during the NRH conference. The staff were all lovely, and offered such valuable insights into employment opportunities in rural areas, and were really open to receiving feedback and gaining an understanding of our experiences.