Jade’s journey to Medicine was something she never imagined possible until Open Foundation provided her with the opportunity through the Excellence through Equity (EtE) pathway.

Jade always had a passion for healthcare and in Year 11 decided to leave school and enrol in Open Foundation.

She was immediately drawn to the alternate study options that Open Foundation provided including the opportunity to apply for the Excellence through Equity pathway to make her goals a reality.

“Open Foundation allowed me to study subjects more relevant to my desired degree and Excellence through Equity was a direct entryway [from Open Foundation], making [Newcastle] the perfect choice of University,” Jade said.

Jade discovered EtE when researching pathways on the University of Newcastle website. After this, Jade decided pursue Open Foundation as it provided her with the opportunity to access university pathways that suited her goals and desired learning outcomes.

“EtE allowed me to pursue my passions earlier than what would have been possible through the typical HSC pathway,” she said.

“It allows students who have experienced difficulties and hardships to access their dream degree despite other challenges they may have faced.”

The EtE pathway also provided Jade with resources and support, as well as social opportunities with other pathway students and people in the field.

Through this pathway, Jade transitioned directly into the Joint Medical Program (JMP) offered by the University of Newcastle and the University of New England. This program allows students to undertake hands-on experience while studying for a medical degree.

“I believe the diversity of classes and clinical opportunities that the JMP offers will create well-rounded and prepared doctors for the workforce,” Jade said.

Jade has always had a passion for healthcare with a specific interest in the health of women and babies, which has been furthered by volunteering at the John Hunter Hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Jade’s ultimate career goal is to become an OBGYN (obstetrician-gynaecologist), and she also has an interest in other medical programs such as Doctors Without Borders.

The Open Foundation and the EtE programs have enabled Jade to pursue her passions in medical care pathways and to transition into the Joint Medical Program.

Jade believes these experiences have opened different opportunities in terms of study and career pathways.

“Medicine offers so much variety in specialties and opportunities to travel and learn from different people,” she said.

If you would like to find out more about the Excellence through Equity pathway, go to the website here to find out more.

Jade Unahi

Jade Unahi

Jade's passion for Medicine led her to a path she never expected possible

EtE allowed me to leave school and pursue my passions earlier than what would have been possible through the typical HSC pathway.