Early Career and Background
Dr Priyanka completed her MBBS at Adichunchanagiri Institute of Medical Sciences and her postgraduate studies at DY Patil Medical College. Rooting in a medical family, with her mother–a gynaecologist who runs a hospital in Mysore– medicine was always a part of Dr. Priyanka's DNA. After years of working across hospitals, clinics and medical institutions and even running her own Maternity Hospital in Mysore, she knew it was time for a change.
“I was disturbed by the poor ethical practises going on in the Indian healthcare system and the lack of ethics as a basic foundation for a doctor. The corporate set up in India is quite vast, but I didn't want to be a part of the same, and thus, I believed moving abroad was the right choice for me.”
The search for a better quality of life, higher job prospects, and a professional environment that promotes ethical behaviour led her to consider global options. The UK came front as a good option, but was quickly ruled out due to its difficult job market for IMG’s. Just then, Australia’s strong public healthcare, free education system, excellent pay with an amazing work like balance and an outstanding weather became the clear winner. She set the goal and decided to pursue it, no matter how long it takes.
Her AMC Preparation Journey
Dr. Priyanka began her AMC journey with purpose and structure. After intensive research, she joined Academically’s AMC Preparation Course in May 2024. However, it took her one month to settle and go forth with comprehensive preparation, and she began intensive preparation in June while continuing to work in her private practice.
“I used to study around six hours a day regularly. In the final month of preparation, right before the examination, I increased it to 10 hours daily as I didn't want to take any chances” she recalls.
Tips from Dr Priyanka for AMC Aspirants
Dr Priyanka believes that anyone can crack the AMC exam as long as they have a focused and disciplined approach. Her advice for future aspirant is-
- Have a study partner- She remembers teaching concepts to her study partner, which made her concepts even more clearer. She believes that going alone for AMC preparation may not be a good idea, and thus having someone to discuss the topics and test your understanding can accelerate the learning process.
- Understand what works for you- According to Dr. Priyanka, it is very important to customise your study strategy. She believes that everyone has different capacities— while some need more repetition, some grasp faster. Knowing your learning style is very important before you begin preparation.
- Get expert help- Want to clear the AMC exams? In the very first attempt? Without leaving your occupation? Expert help like Academically’s AMC coaching is the answer. A preparation course can simplify the process for you, especially when you are juggling work or are unsure where to start.
- Stay focused on one goal at a time- Hopping between multiple exams at one time may not be such such a good idea. If you believe that AMC is your ultimate goal, give it your full attention.
“The exam isn't tough— it just demands, consistency, and clarity. Be dedicated, stay grounded and don't lose sight of your goal and see success, touching your feet” said Dr. Priyanka.
Where is She Now?
In just four months after clearing the AMC exam in November 2024, Dr. Priyanka landed an outstanding position as a Senior Registrar in Australia— a dream role for many IMG's as well as Australian registered medicos. The new work life balance, ethical environment, and respect for the medical profession, reaffirmed her decision to move. This means that it took approximately 8 to 10 months for her to get a medical job in Australia via the AMC pathway.
To help fellow medicos and AMC aspirants, achieve what she could, she became a part of Academically’s initiative by partnering with us as a AMC faculty member.
Final Words
Dr. Priyanka’s story is a powerful reminder that success doesn't always take years, and even the most challenging of examinations can be cracked with the right approach. Once you build a momentum and go ahead in the right direction, nothing can stop you from achieving what you have always dreamt of.
So if you do dream of becoming a doctor in Australia and want to be one of Academically's success stories, learn more about our AMC preparation course, and get a free counselling with experts today.