Jade Ball has just completed her Doctor of Medicine degree, capping off an impressive 8-year academic journey at the University of Queensland. Throughout her studies, Jade credits the support and community of the ATSIS Unit as instrumental to her success.
"The ATSIS Unit was a very safe space for myself and my colleagues, who are now my best friends," Jade reflected. "We were able to study together in a supportive environment surrounded by our community. Getting through the tough times of an eight-year university journey was made easier by having people around me to provide support, and for me to support in return."
Jade first came to UQ straight out of school, completing a Bachelor of Science before transitioning into the demanding Doctor of Medicine program. She was fortunate enough to receive scholarships that helped her financially, something Jade is deeply grateful for.
"Some of the scholarships which I was able to receive have been just amazing, and the ATSIS Unit was very involved in that process as well," she said.
In addition to the academic and financial support, Jade also found valuable leadership opportunities through the ATSIS Unit. She worked as a tutor during her second year of medicine, which she described as a "really good leadership opportunity."
Jade's journey was not without its challenges, but she credits the community at the ATSIS Unit for helping her persevere. She met some of her closest friends, Dr. Lucy Crosby and Dr. Tennelle Hunchin, through the Unit, and they supported each other throughout their medical degrees.
Now embarking on her medical career, Jade looks back on her time at UQ with great pride and appreciation for the role the ATSIS Unit played in shaping her path.
"I will look back at my time at UQ with some great pride, and I'll miss it," she said. "The ATSIS Unit provided a safe and supportive space that was crucial to my success."
