Alexander Troyer, a Class of 2024 graduate of The University of Queensland Ochsner Doctor of Medicine (MD) program, has had a remarkable journey from Louisiana to Australia and back.
His experiences offer valuable insights for future medical students and healthcare professionals.
Growing up just outside of New Orleans, Louisiana, Alexander attended Louisiana State University for his undergraduate studies.
His passion for medicine was ignited by a life-changing experience at the age of 14, which solidified his desire to pursue a career in patient care.
Alexander Troyer said, "That really solidified my desire to pursue a career in medicine, and I haven’t turned back since."
Alexander chose the UQ-Ochsner MD program for its unique opportunity to combine high-quality education with international travel.
"The UQ-Ochsner program allowed me to study in Australia for two years and then come back home to New Orleans, staying close to my roots in Louisiana. It was the perfect fit for me," he said.
The decision to move to Australia was driven by his desire to experience new cultures and opportunities while still in school.
"The opportunity to explore the world while getting a high-quality education was something the UQ Ochsner program uniquely offered," he said.
Studying in Brisbane, provided Alexander with a vibrant and diverse environment.
"Brisbane has beautiful landscapes and parks where you can study, and the city offers so much—rivers, beaches, surfing, hiking—there’s something for everyone when you need a break from the books," he said.
The UQ-Ochsner cohort also became an integral part of his experience.
"This program gave me the opportunity to build lifelong friendships and networks with people from diverse backgrounds. It’s an experience you just don’t get at a local medical school," he said.
The clinical training at Ochsner in New Orleans was a pivotal part of Alexander's education.
"The clinical training at Ochsner Health is second to none. You get hands-on exposure to complex surgical cases, complex ICU patients, transplants, and oncology—all things you’d see at a tertiary care center," he said.
This rigorous training has prepared him well for his future career in interventional radiology, a specialty he is passionate about and currently pursuing through the MATCH.
"I feel very well-prepared thanks to Ochsner. The program gave me solid clinical training and core knowledge, along with plenty of elective time to focus on the specialty I’m passionate about," he said.
As Alexander prepared to graduate, he reflected on his journey with a mix of excitement and nostalgia.
"It feels like just yesterday I was heading to Australia for my first year. It’s flown by, but I feel confident that I’ve received the training I need and I’m ready for the next step," he said.
His experiences across two healthcare systems have broadened his understanding of different healthcare environments and cultures, making him a more well-rounded and empathetic physician.
"Training across two healthcare systems has taught me how different healthcare environments impact patients. It’s broadened my understanding of various cultures and made me more comfortable communicating with people from diverse backgrounds," he said.
