Cheyenne Low’s path to medicine wasn’t linear.
Originally from Orange County, California, and a biochemistry graduate from UC Santa Barbara, she thought she’d spend her career in a lab but everything changed when she shadowed an emergency department (ED) physician.
Cheyenne Low said, “I absolutely loved it and decided to pursue medicine from there.
Her post-college years were spent gaining hands-on experience in diabetes research and working in the emergency department.
When a friend raved about The University of Queensland Ochsner Doctor of Medicine (MD) program, Cheyenne decided to apply.
“When I got in, I was ecstatic,” she said.
The decision to study medicine across two continents came with challenges but offered unique rewards.
“I chose UQ because it combined Australian culture with the culture of New Orleans,” she said.
Despite starting her studies online due to COVID-19, she forged lifelong friendships during her quarantine period in Sydney.
“Australia was an amazing experience, with diverse patient populations and incredible staff to learn from,” she said.
Returning to the US for clinical training at Ochsner Health in New Orleans, Cheyenne thrived in the fast-paced and dynamic environment.
“Ochsner provides some of the best clinical training. You work with an underserved population, and the patients are incredibly grateful,” she said.
Her passion for emergency medicine grew even stronger.
“Every day is different, and you’re the first line of help when patients come in at their most vulnerable,” she said.
As Cheyenne prepares for residency, she feels ready to face any challenge.
“My experiences in Australia and New Orleans have prepared me to treat any patient who walks into the emergency department,” she said.
Her advice to prospective students? “Take your time to figure out if medicine is truly what you want. It’s a hard journey, but it’s worth it in the end,” she said.
Reflecting on her journey, Cheyenne highlighted the unique opportunities the program afforded her.
“Studying in Australia was incredible—I even traveled to countries like Japan and Indonesia while studying medicine,” she said.
She also embraced the Southern hospitality of New Orleans.
“The patient population here is incredibly grateful, and the people are so welcoming,” she said.
As she awaits the next chapter, Cheyenne feels both nervous and excited.
“It hasn’t hit me yet. I think it’ll sink in when I match,” she said.
For now, she’s ready to celebrate with her cohort and embrace the title of “doctor.”
