Keiran Cubby, a University of Newcastle Bachelor of Medical Science/Doctor of Medicine graduate, is on a determined path to becoming an orthopaedic surgeon.
He moved from Dubbo to Newcastle to study medicine, however post-graduate study to become a surgeon was financially out of reach for the Wiradjuri/Murrawarri man.
But with the assistance of financial support through the University of Newcastle's Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) postgraduate initiative for Indigenous students, the financial burden of postgraduate study is one less hurdle Kieran needs to jump.
The University of Newcastle's CSP initiative for Indigenous students provides Australian Government-subsidised financial support across its full suite of postgraduate programs.
The unique initiative ensures accessible and affordable access to postgraduate study for Indigenous students who are looking to further their career.
Mr Cubby's inspiring journey is credit to his hard work and determination.
"I didn't get the marks I needed at school to get into medicine," he said. "But the university's Yapug and Miroma Bunbilla programs and support from the Wollotuka Institute really set me up for university. Without them, and without CSP, I wouldn't be where I am today."
Mr Cubby said at first he wanted to become a general practitioner, however once he got into the program and started working in a hospital context, he released orthopaedics is where his passion lies.
"CSP has helped me carry out the studies I need to become a surgeon," Mr Cubby said.
"It's streamlined everything. It's a great initiative. It bridges the gap for students like me, who don't have financial benefactors to help get through university. It's made a real difference."
Following the completion of his Bachelor of Medical Science/Doctor of Medicine, Mr Cubby is now a resident medical officer at John Hunter Hospital.
Mr Cubby's next goal is to complete the Master of Traumatology program - a crucial step toward him becoming one of the few Indigenous orthopaedic surgeons in Australia.
With fewer than 10 qualified Indigenous surgeons in the country, according to the University of Newcastle, Mr Cubby's path to becoming a surgeon is difficult and expensive, a barrier which often turns students away from studying medicine.
Now a new father, Mr Cubby is balancing hospital shifts, postgraduate study, and making time for family life.
"It's a massive juggle. Having some of the financial burden lifted by the CSP initiative has been a huge help. Everything costs these days, especially the exams and courses I need to take. This program is like a hurdle remover," Mr Cubby said.
University of Newcastle Vice Chancellor, Professor Alex Zelinsky, said the University is proud of its commitment to empowering its Indigenous students to succeed and thrive.
"Kieran's impressive journey shows the transformative impact of the CSP initiative for Indigenous students," Professor Zelinsky said.
"With study options uniquely offered right across all our postgraduate programs, this initiative could be the next step in your career journey, no matter if you work in medicine, are a teacher or an engineer - there is place for you."
"It's helping to shape the next generation of Indigenous leaders in medicine, just like Kieran."
More information about the University of Newcastle's Commonwealth Supported Places for Indigenous students is available online.
