What We Do
Founded in 1995, SWIM is a student organisation that recognises and aims to tackle the unique challenges women face within the field of medicine; and we believe equality is the way to acheive this.
We aim to inspire, empower and connect.
We also welcome people of all genders!
Academic
For you first year med kids, SWIM runs Clinical Exam Tutorials (CETs) in line with your Clinical Coaching assessments, that give you super helpful tips, tricks, practice and mock exam time with tutors from years 2-4. For those in year 2-4, we run Advanced CETs tutored by junior doctors that cover Clinical Exams not assessed in first year.
We also run Professional Development Workshops aimed at students in years 3-4, to help prepare you for some of the challenges you may face in your career in medicine, including: building resilience, conflict resolution, dealing with patient complaints, workplace bullying and more.
Social
Our “Women in…” series of networking nights give students of all years the unparalleled opportunity to meet and have a chat to some incredible female leaders in medicine, surgery, diverse medical careers and rural medicine. Our attendees include: Order of Australia recipients, CEOs of international organisations, Presidents of Royal Colleges, Medical Directors and Senior Staff Specialists! These networking nights give you the opportunity to establish valuable mentorships and key contacts for your future career in medicine.
SWIM also runs Charity Cocktail and Charity Wine and Cheese Nights. Think great company, fabulous food, delicious drinks, amazing entertainment and awesome raffle prizes - all for a good cause!
Fitness and Community
Amidst all the crazy of medical school, we like to keep things balanced by providing weekly yoga and group running, SWOTVAC rock-climbing sessions, mountain hiking and other fun fitness activities.
SWIM also loves giving back to the community. We support local and international charities through volunteer work and fundraising such as cooking meals at Ronald McDonald Houses, taking part in the Mother’s Day Classic run and holding charity raffles and bake sales.
Advocacy
You speak (or type), we listen - and do something about it. Our advocacy focus is in gender equity and issues pertaining to female medical students. SWIM liaises closely with UQMS, other student societies and the Faculty of Medicine, as well as professional organisations such as AMSA, the Queensland Medical Students Council and the Queensland Medical Women’s Society to advocate for positive change.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch or have a chat if you ever have a question or concern!