Student Highlights
Equity Pathways put medicine on the menu

Paul had a different start to his university journey after leaving school. He began work as a chef, but after almost 14 years in that industry he sought a career change and turned to Open Foundation to further his education.

“Like many others who entered the Open Foundation program, my high school education had been impacted by factors that held me back academically,” he said.

Choosing to study Open Foundation was an easy choice. Having friends who had already studied, Paul was confident in his decision to start studying again.

“[University of] Newcastle offers a pathway that allows people with backgrounds such as my own to begin the educational journey. I have many close friends who have studied here, and I trust that UON delivers quality education,” he said.

Having a passion for science and law, Paul considered a law degree after convincing himself medicine would be too hard to achieve directly through Open Foundation.

“Academically I am passionate about science and law. Though it is ultimately my desire to positively affect outcomes for people that I am most passionate about,” he said.

“I did not think that I could apply for medicine directly after Open Foundation. So, I had set my sights on law, with intentions to do well and use those scores to begin applying for medicine. I knew medicine was a difficult program to get into and I wanted to be studying something I could be passionate about if I was not successful.”

Through completing the Open Foundation program, Paul was able to apply for the Bachelor of Medical Science / Doctor of Medicine (Joint Medical Program) through the Excellence through Equity (EtE) Pathway to Medicine.

This pathway opens opportunities for people from diverse backgrounds who have experienced disadvantage along their educational journey.

“Open Foundation is an opportunity that we are lucky to have, and the academic staff are passionate about helping their students take that opportunity,”

“I feel as if I have a solid team behind me. Imposter syndrome in medicine is real, and the EtE team have helped at every step from application to orientation and beyond,” he said.

Each year, up to six places are set aside for students who successfully complete the Open Foundation pathway. Reflecting on this opportunity, Paul believes it has completely changed his life and the possibilities he now has within reach.

“My entire life has changed, my life is now on a course towards an exciting career. I have gained new skills in communication, science and clinical examination. I am excited for the coming semester and beyond, as the course opens up to clinical placements,” he said.

Reflecting on the experience so far, Paul recalls receiving his acceptance into the JMP as the most exciting and inspiring experience of his time at the university. Forever grateful for this experience, he attributes the change in his life to the opportunities Open Foundation and the EtE pathway provided.

“Without EtE, I would not be in medicine. Simply that has been the biggest help, my life is completely different, and I can thank EtE for that,” he said.

Find out more about the Excellence through Equity pathway here

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Paul Niddrie

After 14 years in hospitality, Paul sought a change but never expected it to be into medicine. With the help of Open Foundation and the Excellence through Equity Pathway to Medicine he is now accomplishing his dreams.

Without Excellence through Equity, I would not be in medicine. Simply that has been the biggest help, my life is completely different, and I can thank EtE that.