About your social life

Uni is much more than just getting a degree. In fact, if you spent all your time with your nose in a book, you would definitely be missing out. The JMP program encourages students to have a healthy work/life balance, and to enjoy the benefits of university life outside of the classroom. Each university has many social and sporting clubs that you can join and as a medical student there is even more for you to be involved in.

Medical societies

Both Universities have their own student run societies (University of Newcastle Medical Society and University of New England Medical Student's Association) which are multi-faceted, student-focused and progressive organisations interwoven within the fabric of medicine and the JMP.

The societies are central to the social, academic and political life of medical students. They offer much needed respite from study with a range of exciting social events, explore innovative methods of co-curricular education and engaging in the political arena.

All medical students are welcome to join and enjoy the opportunities to support the work of a committed organisation and indulge in the many experiences of student life. For students, membership promises:

  • Access to academic events, including exciting guest speakers, forums, debates, tours and team challenges
  • Subsidised entry to all social events at both Newcastle and Armidale campuses
  • Regular updates on advocacy endeavours
  • Representation at a local, state, national and international level, and
  • Voting rights in executive and committee elections
  • Financial support to attend conferences
  • Discounts at the UNMS Bookscheme (for Newcastle students)

For more information about the JMP medical societies visit their websites.

General Practice Interest Groups

The General Practice Students Network (GPSN) is active in both Newcastle and Armidale and 18 other medical schools across Australia. Contact your ambassadors to find out what's happening on your campus through www.gpsn.org.au. GPSN also offers information about the First Wave Scholarship Program for first and second year medical students.

GP Club events usually feature inspiring GPs speaking about why they enjoy their exceptional careers, and showcasing the diversity of opportunity in general practice in a relaxed and enjoyable social environment. Skills training is another enjoyable and rewarding activity for GPs and students alike at these events. These sessions are coordinated by the experienced teaching staff of both the University of Newcastle's Discipline of General Practice and General Practice Training - Valley to Coast with the assistance of volunteer GPs, GP Registrars and Junior Medical Officers. Dinner and refreshments are also provided. Events are free of charge and are held in Newcastle and Gosford. To find out details about GP Club events please register at www.gptvtc.com.au. Find the GP Club page through the medical students/JMOs tab and click on the link to register.

Rural Health Clubs

Rural Health Clubs consists of members from a range of health disciplines who have a common interest in health issues faced by rural and remote communities. Many are from rural areas themselves, but many are also from cities and have gained an interest after having a great time on a rural placement or just from learning more about healthcare in Australia. The clubs aim to promote rural and remote practice to their members through information exchange, placement opportunities, support and advocacy.

Surgical Interest Groups

Surgical interest groups are for all the medical students that just can't wait until their 3rd or 4th post-graduate year to be involved with surgery. Information evenings, talks by surgeons, skills evenings, hospital tours and more.

Global Health Interest Group

Wake Up

In 2005, a group of Newcastle medical students with a vision for developing world health founded a student interest group to facilitate and empower individuals sharing this passion. The result was 'Wake Up!', an organisation which now, five years later, has grown to become a forum for involving students in a wide variety of global health initiatives, giving you the opportunity to make a difference.

ASPIRE - Armidale Students Promoting International Rights and Equality

ASPIRE is a group of students that are working to promote better health equality globally and locally. As the Global Health Group for the University of New England, our goals are to educate the student population about global health issues and the positive steps that they can take to promote global health equity. Be part of the team and “be the change you wish to see in the world”.