Dr Goachagorn Darathai - 2024 Graduate
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2024 Griffith University Graduate and AMA Queensland Foundation Medical Student Scholarship Recipient.
Dr Goachagorn (Skye) Darathai was in her final year of medical school when she applied for a Medical Student Scholarship.
Dr Darathai moved from Thailand to Australia with her mum at the age of nine in pursuit of better educational opportunities.
Despite enduring financial and family struggles that continued well into her university years, her goal to become a cardiothoracic surgeon never wavered.
However, as a final year medical student, Dr Darathai said she found it difficult to balance study, work and clinical placements, often working night shifts, weekends and even weekdays.
The scholarship supported her to reduce her work hours in her final year and focus on her studies and her clinical placements.
“The AMA Queensland Foundation Scholarship has significantly eased financial constraints, allowing me to dedicate more time and resources to my medical studies,” Dr Darathai said.
“It has enabled me to access specialised learning tools and attend workshops related to cardiothoracic surgery, which would otherwise have been beyond my reach. I have also been able to complete a presentation during my orthopaedics term.
“This support has been pivotal in helping me complete my medical degree and further pursue a career in cardiothoracic surgery.”
In 2025, Dr Darathai commenced an internship at Townsville Hospital, where she is contributing to the rural community while focusing on developing core surgical skills essential for cardiothoracics.
“A significant milestone will be gaining practical experience in managing complex cardiovascular cases and refining my technical proficiency in surgical procedures,” she said.
“I also plan to engage in research related to improving outcomes in cardiothoracic surgery, contributing to advancements in this critical field.
“I am immensely grateful for the support of the AMA Queensland Foundation. This scholarship has provided invaluable assistance, allowing me to focus on my studies and clinical training without financial stress.
“Your generosity has inspired me to excel and give back to the medical community in the future. Thank you for empowering me to pursue my dream.”
We congratulate Dr Darathai on her graduation and securing an internship and wish her every success as she pursues her medical aspirations.