Transforming a passion for healthcare into a career in podiatry

Hazel, a Singaporean alumna, chose to study a Bachelor of Podiatric Medicine at the University of Newcastle driven by her motivation to make a difference in the healthcare industry.  “I have always wanted to work in healthcare. “I am passionate about making a difference and improving our patients’ quality of life.” she says.

Throughout her studies, Hazel gained practical experience that was essential in developing her skills. She recalls, “besides our lab sessions and internal placement sessions at our student clinic, we also went for external clinical placements at public and private practices.

“We were given a lot of exposure to the industry through external placements and the annual podiatry industry day organized by the University. Our lecturers and supervisors had also strongly encouraged us to pursue postgraduate studies. ”

Hazel says that she felt supported through every step of her university journey, that she highly valued the resources provided to her, and that she also enjoyed the student lifestyle offered by studying in Newcastle.

“In my spare time, I really enjoy ed going on bushwalks and going to the beach and trying out new restaurants in the city. I also enjoyed finding new places to do my leisurely run.”

Currently working as podiatrist in Singapore, Hazel believes that the university equipped her with the tools, experiences and knowledge to become future-ready for her career. “It has given me a solid foundation in clinical skills and knowledge that is crucial in my work today.

“We had access to new technology and equipment as part of clinical practice, allowing us to gain more hands-on experience with tools that are now becoming standard in public and private practice.”

Hazel highly recommends the experience of studying abroad at the University of Newcastle to other international students. “I have great things to say about the university because I felt very supported throughout my time there.

“I truly felt that the lecturers and university staff had our best interests at heart, and that the pace of learning was well suited to my needs. I was able to understand complex concepts and then apply them to real-world situations in my profession.”

Hazel Chua

Working at a public hospital in Singapore as a professional podiatrist, alumna Hazel Chua believes that the University of Newcastle equipped her with the tools, knowledge and experience needed to thrive in her profession.

I am passionate about making a difference and improving our patients’ quality of life