As part of our celebrations for the Otago Medical School’s 150th anniversary, some of our talented tauira across Aotearoa New Zealand share their thoughts and reflections. In this Q&A, Ruby, Cam and Leigh talk about their time at our Ōtepoti Dunedin campus.
Ruby Hosking
Sixth-year medical student Ruby Hosking is President of the Dunedin Medical Students’ Association for ALM (Advanced Learning in Medicine).
What led you to study medicine?
I've always wanted to be in a career where I can make a real, tangible difference in people’s lives, and medicine felt like the perfect way to do that.
I remember, growing up, noticing how people placed their trust in doctors so instinctively. That level of trust is rare in any other field, and I knew I wanted to be that person—someone others could rely on in their most vulnerable moments. I also love that medicine is never static; there’s always something new to learn, and that keeps me constantly curious and inspired.
What do you enjoy most about studying at Otago?
Being based at the Dunedin campus has been a highlight. The hospital has a strong “teaching vibe”—patients are not just accepting of student involvement, but genuinely enthusiastic about it. I’ve also really appreciated the close relationships we have with faculty and how seriously staff take our voice when it comes to shaping the future of the course.
The smaller cohort in Dunedin also means we really know each other well. There’s a strong sense of student culture here that makes it a genuinely supportive and tight-knit place to study.
What are your plans for the future – where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?
I’m aiming for a career in critical care medicine— I imagine that in 10 years' time I’ll still be working through the training!
One of my biggest goals is to contribute meaningfully to the medical profession—not just through clinical work, but also through advocacy and teaching. I hope to be the kind of doctor who is always approachable, someone who never sees themselves as “above” any task or team. That’s the kind of energy I want to bring into every space I’m in.
Cam Young
Cam Young is partway through an MB ChB and is a PhD student in the Department of Anatomy.
What led you to study medicine?
Growing up, my mother and grandparents impressed upon me the importance of generosity and service to the community. They encouraged me to study medicine and, although I came to Otago for this, at first I did not succeed.
After a long journey studying for an undergraduate (Anatomy, Pacific Island Studies) and Honours degree (First Class in Anatomy), I developed an appreciation for the value and impact clinicians can bring to the world. I reapplied and, in 2024, started my journey into medicine.
What do you enjoy most about studying at Otago?
Nothing beats the sense of community and connection that Otago has. There is a place for every kind of person here – artists, scientists, dreamers, and thrill-seekers – and Dunedin has helped me to develop a strong sense of pride in my identity.
I have found many lifelong friends here who inspire me and drive me to do my best.
What are your plans for the future – where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?
My love for research was born during my undergraduate time in Anatomy and I hope to continue down the path of a clinician-researcher. I am currently taking a hiatus from medicine to work on my PhD, which uses transdisciplinary techniques to investigate the role of diet during pregnancy in establishing chronic disease.
My high school’s motto captures one of my core beliefs: “He mana tō te mātauranga” (knowledge is strength). Just as I have been inspired and empowered by many teachers, one day I hope to teach the future generations.
Leigh Albert (Ngāti Hine (Te Tai Tokerau), Te Whānau-ā-Apanui, Ngāpuhi)
Leigh Albert is a sixth-year medical student.
What led you to study medicine?
Growing up in a small rural area in Motatau, Northland, I was inspired by Dr Lawrence, a local GP who visited our little school. He cared for our hakihaki (sores), infections, mamae (injuries), and immunised us. There weren’t very many tamariki born in our area who had not been guided into the world by his hands—all with kindness and aroha. His presence sparked my first admiration for medicine.
Alongside him, my Nana Mabel taught me Rongoā Māori—how to harvest, boil, and prepare traditional medicine for our whānau and people. Their dual influence, both clinical and cultural, ignited a deep calling. Later, the TV show M*A*S*H* solidified not just my passion for medicine, but also my desire to serve. I went on to become a combat medic in the NZ Army, a journey that shaped me into a better clinician.
What do you enjoy most about studying at Otago?
The student support at Otago is outstanding. As a wahine Māori, a single māmā of three, working three jobs, I couldn’t imagine studying medicine anywhere else. From the Māori Centre to Kōhatu, Te Roopū Māori and Te Oranga ki Ōtākou, I’ve always felt supported.
Dunedin’s affordability, transport, and schooling options make life more manageable.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Serving my people and the NZ Defence Force, dual-trained in rural hospital medicine and general practice.
- Read more about Leigh Albert here