Becoming a doctor has been fifth-year medical student Kiera Sanders’ ambition since childhood.

“I’ve always wanted to do medicine, and my family has been incredibly supportive,” she said.

Kiera is at the Perron Institute clinic in the second cohort of an elective placement of Curtin University Medical School undergraduates. The placement provides opportunities for students to learn from leading clinical experts about the complexities of the brain and the clinical management of neurological disorders

Her first week at the institute involved spending time with some of Western Australia’s leading specialists in multiple sclerosis and movement disorders.

“After two days, I feel very strongly about specialising in neurology,” Kiera said. “I love learning about the diagnosis and management processes firsthand.

“My grandma has MS, and as I learn about this and other complex neurological conditions, I’m keen to help find new ways of understanding and treating these diseases.

“I’ve lived in several states in Australia, including in regional areas. I’m passionate about rural health and finding ways to expand education and retain specialist knowledge in regional and remote areas.”

Clinical Professor David Blacker, Perron Institute Medical Director is pleased the placements are working so well.

“It’s excellent to see senior medical students benefit from the opportunity to gain a variety of specialist neurological experience,” he said.

“We’re delighted to have Kiera Sanders with us for a few weeks, and we look forward to continuing to create placement opportunities for other students from Curtin Medical School.”