When you love what you do, magic can happen. Sarah Hill (Wyvern 2004) is testament to that, as the 2024 recipient of the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Educator of the Year award in recognition of her major contribution to the education and training of junior doctors in their first and second postgraduate years.

“I am so fortunate to spend my days doing something I love: educating and supporting the next generation of junior doctors. I’m privileged to work with an incredible team in my role as Learning and Development Manager of the Medical Education Unit at Alfred Health. We coordinate orientation programs, regular education sessions, practical skills workshops, the provision of regular feedback from supervisors, and ensure the overall training program meets accreditation standards.”

Sarah’s path to this role has not been linear.

‘While living at Queen’s, I studied pharmacy, then worked as a pharmacist in both hospital and community settings. During this time, I discovered my passion for teaching and decided to pursue a Diploma of Education (Secondary). After five years teaching science and VCE chemistry at Lowther Hall and MLC, while also working weekends as a pharmacist to maintain my registration, my desire to combine both fields led me to my current role.”

Queen’s provided all Sarah hoped, from making new friends, making costumes for all the ‘turns’, to making memories every time her fresher group sang their song at the top of their voices.

“On my tour, I remember being absolutely enchanted by the Castle itself. Queen’s was the perfect well-rounded start to my adult life. I felt supported to succeed with the myriad of opportunities provided, academic structures, invaluable community spirit, and social and professional connections to last a lifetime. Many of my nearest and dearest friends are Wyverns. I am amazed by how many of us are still a tight knit friendship group, catching up locally, interstate and overseas.”

One Queen’s tradition Sarah has held particularly dear.

“I will be forever grateful for the dining hall seating rule – taking up the last vacant seats before starting a new table. I am now so confident to approach new people, and to reconnect with Wyverns in the workplace, who I sat next to for a meal once upon a time.”

Sarah would be delighted to hear from any Wyverns or current students, either via LinkedIn or her email sarahrhill8@gmail.com

 Sarah receiving her Australian and New Zealand Clinical Educator of the Year award.