Laura-Kaye McFarlane - Contributed

SHELDON WILLIAMS, STAFF REPORTER

Aspiring medical doctor Laura-Kaye McFarlane remains undaunted at the competitive task of earning one of the limited places available for admission to the medical faculty at the University of The West Indies in each academic year.

The 22-year-old has already earned a BSc in experimental biology with honours at the undergraduate level and is now pursuing post graduate studies in medical physics at the said university as she remains focused on earning the initials Dr before her names in the near future.

McFarlane told The STARAchievers that she keeps tangible reminders of her ambitions in range of vision, so that she remains constantly driven.

"I keep my goals in plain sight, literally. I place notes/signs in areas of the house where I frequent, so that I can always know what I am working towards," McFarlane said.

When quizzed about her rationale for wanting to become a medical doctor, McFarlane attributed her interest to wanting to effect change in the health sector.

McFarlane said, "My ultimate career goal is to bring about a transformation in the health and wellness of our country. I do believe that Jamaica has the ability to operate at a higher standard in terms of the health care we provide and the services we offer."

She continued, "It is important that in this day and age when techniques are evolving and methods of treatment are being revolutionised that we are on par with other nations. Though the sector suffers profoundly from financial constraints, this should not be looked upon a limitation but a means to initiate creative thoughts as to how we can make things happen. Lao Tzu, says 'the journey of a thousand miles begins with one single step'; let's just say I already have my walking shoes on."

STAR ACHIEVERS spoke with the aspiring pediatrician in a telephone interview recently to acquire among other things, her preparedness for becoming a medical doctor, framework for success and approach to studying.

Q: Do you consider yourself academically gifted?

A: I would not necessarily use the term academically gifted, but I do believe that hard work does pay off.

My achievements thus far are a direct result of my determination to succeed and my commitment to achieving this. Everyone has inside them the potential to excel, but it is those who convert that potential into action who will truly be successful in this life.

Q: How influential were your parents and or family unit in you achieving academic excellence?

A: I must say that my family played an integral role not just in my academic excellence but in moulding me into the young woman I am today. Their constant encouragement and words of advice has kept me on a steady path over the years, and I am exceedingly grateful for their support.

Q: Among your many academic achievements, which are you most proud of?

A: I must say that I was really happy to have completed my bachelor's degree with honours. It was a challenging but interesting journey but I am glad I made it through.

Q: How do you approach studying?

A: Well most importantly, in establishing your method to study, you must acknowledge the type of learner you are. Having identified this then you can formulate your technique around this.

For me I tend to take very thorough notes. Along with this I utilise diagrams/pictures to bring concepts to life. I also find practical ways of comparing the things I learn to regular day-to-day activities. This way my mind is always engaged with the material.

Q: Do you ever think about failing or quitting if a task at hand appears to be difficult? Expound on your answer

A: For me failing or quitting is not an option. With the economic landscape as it is now in Jamaica, one simply cannot afford to quit or fail because the cost of education is high and once given the opportunity, one should make the most of it. I know the struggles my parents and other parents endured to fund my education, with that in mind, no matter how daunting the task, I remained determined to succeed.

Q: What are your long-term academic goals (10 years and over)?

A: To establish my career in the medical field providing excellent health care and treatment options for the citizens of Jamaica.

Q: What's the best way to overcome academic obstacles?

A: It first begins with admitting that one has difficulty with a particular area.

The next step is to reach out for help. Many times the way knowledge is imparted is not as effective for some persons. Identify someone who may have another strategy to teach the material.

Or personally you can develop ways to make the information more meaningful.

Though it may appear difficult one must be confident that they can overcome as doubt and lack of self-esteem will prove to be impediments in the process. If you believe, you can indeed achieve.

Q: List all the schools you have attended.

A: Our Lady of the Angels Preparatory School, Immaculate Conception High School, University of the West Indies.

Q: Do you have any role models that you aspire to emulate?

A: My former paediatrician, Dr Carolyn Gomes - now the executive director for Jamaicans for Justice.