Charles Sturt University scholarship recipient and first-year medical student at the School of Rural Medicine Ms Miranda Eyb will soon be one of the much-needed doctors to deliver vital health care in the NSW central west.

Miranda is originally from Cudal in the central west and had eagerly awaited the commencement of the Doctor of Medicine (MD) in the Charles Sturt School of Rural Medicine, a five-year undergraduate degree delivered jointly between Charles Sturt and Western Sydney University in Orange.

Miranda is one of the first students to have the opportunity of studying medicine in rural NSW.

Her dream of becoming a doctor in and for the benefit of her local community was made possible when she received one of three Central NSW Joint Organisation Scholarships for students commencing the Doctor of Medicine (MD) course in Orange.

This was critical for her dream to become a reality as the cost of studying away from home was prohibitive. Both Miranda and her family felt enormous financial pressure to come up with a solution.

“This scholarship has made a huge difference to my family and me,” Miranda said.

“As a farming family the drought meant my parents weren’t in a position to support me through university.

“It was a huge relief for all of us when I was awarded this scholarship from Charles Sturt University as I was already working two jobs to be able to study medicine, and the scholarship has provided the essential funds I need to do my work placements when I have to live away from home.”

Miranda is looking forward to continuing her involvement in her local community, such as supporting the Cudal Pony Club and showing her cattle at local agricultural shows, which are integral to country towns.

She is confident that being able to study and work in the central west will make her better equipped to serve central NSW farming communities.

“I am certain that staying connected with my local community during my degree will help me to remain in tune with the needs and nuances of local people,” Miranda said.

“I am so grateful to be able to study medicine in my home community, rather than having to travel hundreds of kilometres away.”

CEO of the Charles Sturt Foundation Ms Sarah Ansell said, “Miranda’s story demonstrates the impact that scholarships can have on an individual and a community.

“We believe everyone committed to developing their skills through higher education should be given the opportunity.

“Our graduates go on to fill critical roles in society and a student’s potential should not be hindered based on their family’s bank balance,” Ms Ansell said.

Miranda thanked Charles Sturt and the Central NSW Joint Organisation for their continued advocacy to establish a Doctor of Medicine course in Orange.

“I know how incredibly lucky I am to have this opportunity,” she said.

“Everyone fought tirelessly for the School of Rural Medicine and our communities will be forever grateful.”

There are currently over 150 scholarships being offered through Charles Sturt University. A full list of scholarships is available on the Charles Sturt website.