Meet Jerry, a third-year Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine student who's turned his university experience into an adventure that spans continents.

When Jerry first walked through Monash's doors, he had no idea his studies would take him from the lecture halls of Clayton to experiences all over the world and leading student societies. His story perfectly captures what university life can be when you're willing to say yes to opportunity.

More than just medicine

Jerry's studying for a five-year Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine degree, but his education extends far beyond textbooks and exams. Instead, the course offers extensive experiences to train their skills. Now in his third year, he's deep into clinical placements at Monash Medical Centre and the Victorian Heart Hospital, rotating through ten different departments and getting hands-on experience with real patients.

"From day one, we've had opportunities to learn and practise clinical skills in both simulated and real environments," Jerry explains. "It's not just about memorising facts – we're actually developing the skills we'll use as future doctors."

One experience that stands out was his rural placement in Mildura last September. It was his first clinical placement and his first time living in a rural area, but the faculty support was excellent, and the learning opportunities were endless. Jerry also loves the annual Med Ball, where he can connect with students from all year levels and have a good time.

Jerry's one tip for succeeding in this degree is, in the words of Shakira, "Try everything". "There are so many opportunities in this degree, but not all of them will be easy to access. Put your hand up, ask to be part of projects, and don't be afraid of rejection."

Leading social activities in MUMUS

Jerry's involvement goes well beyond his studies. As Vice President for Socials in the Monash University Medical Students Society (MUMUS), he's been instrumental in organising everything from large faculty-wide events to intimate year-level gatherings. Before stepping into this role, he served as the social representative in his first and second years.

"I can't properly express how much I've learned from these roles," he reflects. "Whether it's managing large-scale funding, tackling complex logistics, or resolving emergency scenarios – it's made me stronger both as an individual and as part of a team."

The role has taught him everything from resource allocation to crisis management, and he's built lasting friendships along the way, even if it sometimes means bonding over "mounds of paperwork."

A world of adventures

Jerry's friends know him as someone who does "a lot of side quests" – and that's putting it mildly. His adventures read like a gap year bucket list: emergency medicine training in Egypt, setting up health clinics in Nepal's mountains, developing surgical skills in New Zealand, and even studying space science at the International Space University.

He's organised medical conferences for over 4,000 international participants in Switzerland, worked as a motorsports medic, and played bassoon in a professional orchestra. As he shared his story, Jerry was literally packing for his next adventure – an exchange program in Germany.

"I included all these experiences to highlight just how rich and fulfilling your university experience can be if you're willing to step out of your comfort zone, and embark on new adventures" Jerry says.

Balancing university commitments with extracurriculars

With such a packed schedule, time management is crucial. Jerry's secret to never missing a deadline is planning with contingencies and staying flexible. He always leaves buffer time between tasks for unexpected delays, and his phone's calendar app is his lifeline. But perhaps most importantly, he knows his priorities. "My priority will always be my wellbeing and the wellbeing of others," he emphasises. "I'll always strive to eat healthy, maintain my exercise schedule, and check in with others, even if it means hitting pause on a few tasks. It's easy to think you should just push through, but that's not beneficial in the long run."

Advice for students attending Open Day

Reflecting on his own Open Day experience as a Year 12 student, Jerry remembers being "dazzled by all the stalls and shows" and surprised by the sheer number of opportunities available. His advice for students attending Open Day is to keep an open mind.

"Look at some degrees you haven't really considered before," he suggests. "That way you can really make the best choice for yourself when it comes to choosing your path at uni."

Jerry's journey shows that university isn't just about getting a degree – it's about discovering who you are and who you want to become. Whether you're drawn to medicine, looking for adventure, or simply curious about what's possible, his story proves that at Monash, the only limit is your willingness to try everything.