My role as Vice President External will be to strongly and effectively advocate for AMSA and its members. We will begin the year with a clear plan for tackling the big issues, including the issues we wish to address and the means by which we will do this. I will ensure that my voice represents the thoughts and opinions of medical students nationwide - this voice will be reflective of the views of every one of the 19 Australian medical schools, and not just the views of the executive.

AMSA has formed strong relationships with stakeholders in the medical system and members of parliament, which I will use and grow. It is essential that those involved in healthcare, as well as the public, understand that the quality of medical education and training provided by Australian universities impacts upon patient care and outcomes in the Australian healthcare system.

I’ve learnt that what doesn’t kill you can only make you stronger - or simply provide you with invaluable knowledge and insight into the role and function of the AMSA executive and AMSA as a whole. Having spent a year on the executive, I am well versed in the current problems facing AMSA and its members. Given that I have already done an undergraduate degree with honours, and now being half way through my medical degree in a different state, means I am not only quite old, but I also have a good insight into the different situations facing the diversity of med students across the country. Combined with the other members of our team, we have a great mix of backgrounds which truly represents the spectrum of people studying medicine across the country rather than only a small portion of it.

My keen involvement in many student groups, and now AMSA, has given me the skills to communicate well and work effectively with others. As Public Relations Officer, I learned many new skills and insights in advocating on issues through the timely and appropriate use of the media and by communicating with both stakeholders and individuals central to the topic. My role as VPE will build upon these skills and knowledge to further the progress made in the areas of internship placements and rural health, as well as to target other areas of concern to our members.

I am ready as ever to jump head first into another fun and exciting year involved with AMSA, and await the challenges that lie ahead.