Harrison Wallace, a medical student at The University of Western Australia and a proud Bunbury local, recently returned to his hometown with a new mission – encouraging the next generation to consider careers in rural healthcare.
As part of the Growth Project, Harrison joined students from WA student rural health clubs CROHC, SPINRPHEX, and WAALHIIBE to deliver engaging workshops to Year 7 students. The program, which connects university health students with rural high school students over three years, aims to spark early interest in healthcare careers well before career paths are locked in.
“Returning to Bunbury and sharing my journey was incredibly rewarding,” Harrison said. “While it was challenging balancing rotations and leading activities, the students’ enthusiasm made it all worth it.”
Harrison said the experience not only helped school students discover new career possibilities, but also strengthened his own communication and leadership skills. “It was fulfilling to hear students reflect on what they’d learnt – many asked thoughtful questions and showed genuine curiosity,” he said.
For Harrison, the highlight was collaborating with fellow allied health students and sharing the passion for rural practice. “It’s amazing what we can inspire when we connect early,” he said.