The tenacity of behind a future doctor
GROWING up in Wodonga, the future felt wide open—but also uncertain for Maddy Grinter. At different points, the dream shifted: maybe a vet, maybe a teacher, maybe medicine. But each idea came with its own roadblock. The thought of putting animals down made veterinary science unbearable. And medicine? That dream was quietly discouraged.
In Year 12, the career counsellor delivered a crushing blow: without Maths Methods, Chemistry, or Physics, medicine was off the table. Biomedical science at La Trobe was a possibility—but again, Chemistry was a barrier. Nursing was suggested, but Maddy didn’t feel brave or strong enough.
Still, the dream didn’t die, it just took a detour.
Maddy began a tertiary education pathway through the DiGS program at the University of Melbourne (UoM), which could lead to a Bachelor of Science. But studying in Melbourne didn’t feel right. The city was overwhelming. So instead, she chose the Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Medicine) at La Trobe University in Wodonga, being close to home.
Then came a breakthrough: Maddy passed the GAMSAT exam.
Suddenly, doors opened. Options included the Rural Medical Pathway at the UoM in Shepparton, the University of Sydney, UoM Parkville campus, and even allied health fields like physiotherapy. But the choice was clear—Shepparton meant staying close to home, continuing work at GV Health, and building a life with her husband.
Throughout this journey, Maddy’s childhood paediatrician, Dr Mark Norden, remained a quiet inspiration. Living with Type 1 diabetes, she had experienced firsthand the privilege of good healthcare, and wanted to offer that same care to others.
University life was a mix of challenge and joy. Living on campus at Dookie during the DiGS program brought freedom, friendship, and a sense of being treated like a young adult. The community was strong, and the staff’s support – especially during COVID – was unwavering.
In 2022, Maddy and her husband bought a house. In 2023, she began the Rural Doctor of Medicine program in Shepparton, living on campus to save time and money while continuing to work at GV Health. In 2025, a GP placement in Cobram allowed her to live at home again.
Now, Maddy is set to graduate in 2026, with plans to intern at GV Health. The hospital feels like home, especially in paediatrics and anaesthetics, where hands-on experience fuels her passion.
Was it easy? No. Was it worth it? Absolutely. The highlight? Studying close to home, maintaining connections, and proving that regional pathways are not just viable, they’re powerful.
Her advice to young people? “Your ATAR doesn’t define you. There are pathways everywhere. There’s no single deadline or timeline for success. You can work and study. You can take the long road. And you can still arrive exactly where you’re meant to be.”
For those wondering how to start their own journey, the upcoming Regional Open Day on Sunday, August 10 offer a perfect chance to explore local options. With GOTAFE, La Trobe University and the University of Melbourne opening their doors across Shepparton and Dookie, students and families can see firsthand the many pathways, traditional and alternative, that can lead to a fulfilling career, right here in the Goulburn Valley.
GOTAFE’s Shepparton Open Day Event Details:
Time: 10am – 2pm
Venue: GOTAFE Fryers Street Campus (152-200 Fryers Street)
Registrations: https://gotafe.me/OD25
La Trobe Shepparton’s Open Day Event Details:
Time: 9am – 2pm
Venue: 210 Fryers Street, La Trobe University Shepparton campus
Registrations: visit latrobe.edu.au/openday
University of Melbourne’s Dookie Campus:
Time: 10am-1pm
Venue: Dookie Campus, 940 Dookie-Nalinga Road
Registrations: https://bit.ly/44YOzQW
University of Melbourne’s Shepparton Campus:
Time: 11am-4pm
Venue: Department of Rural Health, Shepparton Campus, 49 Graham St
Registrations: https://bit.ly/44YOGMm
