The Contour Podcast

How do you navigate a small cohort where no one’s gone to med school in 30 years? What happens when your UCAT verbal reasoning crashes on exam day—and yet you still score a 3280? And why “not applying everywhere” quickly became Pania’s biggest regret? In the thirteenth episode of the Medical Student Interviews Series, we’re joined by Pania Paksa, a first-year JMP student based at UNE in Armidale. She shares how she went from a predicted 88 ATAR in Year 11 to strategically rebuilding her Year 12 approach, finding a support system in leadership roles, and mastering a UCAT comeback that carried her into medicine.In this episode we cover:JMP First Impressions: finding community in Armidale’s joint programJMP Structure & Day-to-Day: problem-based learning, anatomy, histology & PBLApplication Strategy & Regrets: ATAR hurdles, UCAT thresholds & missing nationwide applicationsYear 12 Mindset: locking in, inspirational quotes & staying human under pressureSupport System & Extracurriculars: parents, siblings, aunt/uncle and school captaincySubject Choices & Study Methods: why challenging yourself matters—but don’t let scaling rule youTime Management & Self-Care: passive vs. active time, delegation and maintaining sanityUCAT Journey & Exam Day: catching the “UCAT wrath,” priming in the car, and clutching up after verbal reasoningUCAT Lessons: overcoming a 650 verbal score, mindset shifts & avoiding comparisonMMI Adaptability: why letting everything go and “just being you” won on interview dayStarting Med School: balancing “life” with lectures, placements & study moving forwardFinal Advice: “Do not wait for greatness—to get anywhere, you need focus, consistency and action”Interested in joining Contour, or just want to see what we're all about? You can sign up for a free, no-strings-attached trial of our VCE or UCAT programs and see what makes Contour stand out firsthand!Sign up at https://www.contoureducation.com.au/enrolment/⊳ LISTEN HERE ⊲YoutubeSpotifyApple Podcasts⊳ GET IN TOUCH ⊲WebsiteInstagramFacebook⊳ SPECIAL THANKS TO ⊲Host: James BlanchSpecial Guest: Pania PaksaEditor: SaoDigitalAV Technician: Will AlexanderMusic by ProjectifySpotifyYoutube

How do you navigate a school where half the cohort wants to do medicine? Can "gaslighting" yourself through SACs actually work? What if the real secret to UCAT success isn’t doing more questions, but doing them differently?In Episode 12 of the Medical Student Interviews series, we sit down with Rithika Ramesh, a first-year Monash Medicine student, UCAT tutor, and MacRob graduate who scored a 99.50 ATAR and 3310 on the UCAT. From moments of doubt to major breakthroughs, Rithika shares how she transformed VCE stress and UCAT stagnation into confidence, clarity, and success In this episode, we cover:MacRob Realities: competition, camaraderie, and blocking out the noise in a selective schoolVCE Mindset: SAC setbacks, “gaslighting” yourself, and making mistakes work for youSubject Selection: why passion sometimes beats scaling—and can even lead to perfect study scoreUCAT Journey: from question spam to error logs and skill-buildingMMI Wisdom: soft skills, self-awareness, and the myth of the “perfect doctor”First-Year Med Life: simulated patients, practical learning, and the highlights of learningWhy Medicine?: a personal story and reflection that truly changed everythingFinal Advice: resilience, kindness, and the long game of doing your bestInterested in joining Contour, or just want to see what we're all about? You can sign up for a free, no-strings-attached trial of our VCE or UCAT programs and see what makes Contour stand out firsthand!Sign up at https://www.contoureducation.com.au/enrolment/⊳ LISTEN HERE ⊲YoutubeSpotifyApple Podcasts⊳ GET IN TOUCH ⊲WebsiteInstagramFacebook⊳ SPECIAL THANKS TO ⊲Host: James BlanchSpecial Guest: Rithika RameshEditor: SaoDigitalAV Technician: Will AlexanderMusic by ProjectifySpotifyYoutube

What does it take to break through a UCAT plateau when nothing seems to work? How do you stay consistent when Year 12 feels like it’s falling apart? And what mindset actually gets you through the MMI doors?In the eleventh episode of the Medical Student Interviews Series, we’re joined by Jared Lim, a first-year Monash Medicine student and Contour MedPrep UCAT Live Mock Invigilator. He shares how a disciplined study system, a strong support network, and a major mindset shift helped him go from a 2700-point UCAT plateau to a 3260, excel in his ATAR—and walk into the MMI with confidence.In this episode we cover:• Monash Admissions Pathway: VCE, UCAT, MMI and the transition to medicine• Year 12 Retrospective: Forest app routines, subject choices & friendships• VCE Study Habits: flashcards, mock exams & mindful breaks• Managing Exam & UCAT Nerves: support networks & long-term perspective• UCAT Prep Journey: plateau, program guidance & consistency wins• MMI Insights: practice, feedback loops & positive outlook• The Power of a Support Team: teachers, family & peers• Final Advice: do your best, never give up, and embrace the journeyInterested in joining Contour, or just want to see what we're all about? You can sign up for a free, no-strings-attached trial of our VCE or UCAT programs and see what makes Contour stand out firsthand!Sign up at https://www.contoureducation.com.au/enrolment/⊳ LISTEN HERE ⊲YoutubeSpotifyApple Podcasts⊳ GET IN TOUCH ⊲WebsiteInstagramFacebook⊳ SPECIAL THANKS TO ⊲Host: James BlanchSpecial Guest: Jared LimEditor: SaoDigitalAV Technician: Will AlexanderMusic by ProjectifySpotifyYoutube

What are the keys to success for a 99.95 scorer? How do you beat the UCAT and come out in the Top 1%? How do you manage all your pursuits while still prioritising academic success?In the tenth episode of the Medical Student Interviews Series, we sit down with Pranav Choudhary, a second‑year Monash Medicine student with a perfect 99.95 ATAR and 99th percentile UCAT, to unpack the mindset, strategies, and pivotal shifts that have shaped his journey to medical school. From a reflective approach to VCE revision, through overcoming the UCAT with a continually reflective mindset and navigating high-stakes interviews, Pranav shares how he’s learned to turn pressure into purpose. He explores with us why curiosity and reflection, not checklists and score hunting, is what really helps you succeed.In this episode we cover:Life in Monash Medicine – Balancing lectures, anatomy labs, and Contour tutoringMaking the Most of University Style Learning – Why studying in uni is so different from schoolFrom Clubs to Clinics – Leveraging extracurriculars for meaningful early clinical exposure and varietyVCE Reflections – What he’d do differently, what he took on outside of study and were his keys to successSubject Selection Strategy – Why he chose methods, physics, and chemistry—and what he left behindMindset Over Metrics – How “practice → reflect → improve” became his growth formulaHandling High-Pressure Moments – Turning exam and UCAT nerves into performance fuel with “justified confidence”UCAT Strategy Deep Dive – Focusing on iterative progress, not just a target scoreInterview Habits That Last – Smashing the MMI and building a strong baseline so nerves don’t knock you off courseFinal Advice – Committing fully, avoiding regrets, and keeping curiosity at the coreInterested in joining Contour, or just want to see what we're all about? You can sign up for a free, no-strings-attached trial of our VCE or UCAT programs and see what makes Contour stand out firsthand!Sign up at https://www.contoureducation.com.au/enrolment/⊳ LISTEN HERE ⊲YoutubeSpotifyApple Podcasts⊳ GET IN TOUCH ⊲WebsiteInstagramFacebook⊳ SPECIAL THANKS TO ⊲Host: James BlanchSpecial Guest: Pranav ChoudharyEditor: SaoDigitalAV Technician: Will AlexanderMusic by ProjectifySpotifyYoutube

How do you bounce back from setbacks on your path to medicine? What role does balance play in academic success? What happens when your UCAT doesn’t go to plan? How important is exploring all your options when applying to medical schools? In Episode 9 of the Medical Student Interviews Series, we sit down with Isum Malawaraarachchi, a first-year Bond University medical student, to explore his journey into medicine filled with resilience, adaptability, and unexpected turns.After seeing firsthand the power of medicine through his family’s experiences, Isum set his sights on becoming a doctor early on. But his path was anything but easy – from UCAT disappointment to unexpected rejections and the difficult decision to move interstate, Isum shares candid insights about his experiences and shows us the path to medicine is rarely linear, requiring flexibility and openness to different opportunities.Isum dives into:• Why he moved from Melbourne to the Gold Coast to pursue his dream• How balancing sport, leadership, and academics helped build resilience• What he changed after realising his study strategies weren’t working• Why applying interstate — and not just to your “top choice” — can be a game-changer• His honest take on UCAT disappointment (and how it taught him more than success ever could)• Day-to-day life at Bond University and what it’s really like living on campus• His work now with Contour MedPrep, helping other students navigate their journey to medIsum's story highlights the importance of adaptability, reflection, and maintaining perspective when pursuing challenging goals. Whether you're preparing for the UCAT, choosing Year 12 subjects, or facing your own uncertainty, this episode is for anyone who needs a reminder that the road to medicine doesn’t have to be perfect — just persistent. Interested in joining Contour, or just want to see what we're all about? You can sign up for a free, no-strings-attached trial of our VCE or UCAT programs and see what makes Contour stand out firsthand!Sign up at https://www.contoureducation.com.au/enrolment/⊳ LISTEN HERE ⊲YoutubeSpotifyApple Podcasts⊳ GET IN TOUCH ⊲WebsiteInstagramFacebook⊳ SPECIAL THANKS TO ⊲Host: James BlanchSpecial Guest: Isum MalawaraarachchiEditor: SaoDigitalAV Technician: Will AlexanderMusic by ProjectifySpotifyYoutube

How do you navigate the path to medicine when you're the first from your school to do it? How do you succeed in a competitive field without guidance? How do you balance ambition with well-being in the demanding world of medical education?In the eighth episode of the Medical Student Interviews Series, we sit down with Samrath, a fourth-year Monash University medical student, to explore his inspiring journey into medical school.From growing up in Bendigo, being the only one from his school to pursue medicine, to thriving in his clinical rotations, Samrath shares the strategies, lessons, and mindset shifts that helped him succeed. His reflections offer practical guidance and applicable insights for students aspiring to achieve their goals.Samrath dives into:• his experience as a rural student navigating the medical school application process on his own;• the unexpected joy of his surgical rotation after initially dreading it;• his approach to clinical placements and building relationships with healthcare teams;• how reflection and consistency became cornerstones of his success;• balancing professional development with personal well-being and interests;• the challenges and inequities in regional healthcare systems;• his work as Head of Sales at Contour MedPrep;• and much more!Samrath's story highlights the importance of self-starting, reflection, and balance in achieving both academic and personal success. Whether you're preparing for medical school applications, transitioning to clinical years, or interested in rural healthcare, this episode provides valuable strategies and inspiration to help you navigate your own journey with confidence.Interested in joining Contour, or just want to see what we're all about? You can sign up for a free, no-strings-attached trial of our VCE or UCAT programs and see what makes Contour stand out firsthand!Sign up at https://www.contoureducation.com.au/enrolment/⊳ LISTEN HERE ⊲YoutubeSpotifyApple Podcasts⊳ GET IN TOUCH ⊲WebsiteInstagramFacebook⊳ SPECIAL THANKS TO ⊲Host: James BlanchSpecial Guest: Samrath TiwariEditor: SaoDigitalAV Technician: Will AlexanderMusic by ProjectifySpotifyYoutube

What’s it like to make the leap from a big city to a regional town for university? What are the challenges and opportunities unique to studying medicine in a regional setting? How can you embrace big changes and thrive in a new environment?In this episode of the Medical Student Interviews series, we’re joined by Sithuli, a first-year medical student pursuing the regional medical pathway in Queensland. Having moved from Melbourne to Bundaberg, Sithuli shares her inspiring journey into medicine and reflects on her experience transitioning into regional life. She discusses the benefits of regional medicine, including greater hands-on experience, exposure to diverse cases, and the personal growth that comes with stepping out of your comfort zone.Sithuli dives into -adjusting to life in Bundaberg after growing up in Melbourne;the distinctive opportunities in regional medicine, such as earlier patient contact and diverse medical exposure;the importance of resilience and adaptability in a new environment;strategies for excelling in medical school applications, from UCAT preparation to interviews;balancing academic pressures with mental well-being and self-care;building closer connections with mentors and peers;and so much more!Sithuli reflects on the importance of taking opportunities, learning from challenges, and staying focused on long-term goals. Whether you’re considering regional medicine, preparing for the UCAT, or looking for inspiration to navigate your own medical journey, this episode is packed with valuable insights to guide and motivate you.Interested in joining Contour, or just want to see what we’re all about? You can sign up for a free, no-strings-attached trial of our VCE or UCAT programs and see what makes Contour stand out firsthand!Sign up at https://www.contoureducation.com.au/enrolment/⊳ LISTEN HERE ⊲YoutubeSpotifyApple Podcasts⊳ GET IN TOUCH ⊲WebsiteInstagramFacebook⊳ SPECIAL THANKS TO ⊲Host: James BlanchSpecial Guest: Sithuli MendisEditor: SaoDigitalAV Technician: Will AlexanderMusic by ProjectifySpotifyYoutube

What does life beyond the structured routine of medical school look like? How can you balance work, military commitments, and a social life alongside rigorous tertiary studies? How can you get the most out of your years in university?In the sixth episode of the Medical Student Interview Series, we sit down with Eoghan, a third-year medical student, to delve into key topics such as navigating medical school applications, admissions, and embracing the full university experience.Drawing from his own journey, Eoghan reflects on the highs and lows of high school, extracurriculars, and leadership roles, while highlighting the wide array of opportunities awaiting determined university students.Eoghan shares practical advice and personal insights on tackling a demanding Year 12, moving interstate for medical school, overcoming UCAT challenges, study tips, and maintaining balance as a tertiary student.With a rich experience in academic, musical, creative and leadership pursuits, Eoghan shares with us his insights into –making the most out of Year 11 and 12;pursuing success beyond academics;managing School Captaincy and the responsibility of leadership;preparing for medical school applications locally and interstate;his role in Medical Admissions at Contourbalancing aspirations for medicine and the militaryEoghan’s experiences speak to the importance of seizing opportunities, persevering through challenges, and using life lessons to inspire and guide future students. Tune in to this episode for invaluable insights, regardless of where you are in your school, study, or career journey. Few embody determination, resilience, and the courage to embrace every opportunity better than Eoghan!Interested in joining Contour, or just want to see what we’re all about? You can sign up for a free, no-strings-attached trial of our VCE or UCAT programs and see for yourself what makes Contour stand out! Sign up here.⊳ LISTEN HERE ⊲YoutubeSpotifyApple Podcasts⊳ GET IN TOUCH ⊲WebsiteInstagramFacebook⊳ SPECIAL THANKS TO ⊲Host: James BlanchSpecial Guest: Eoghan KuiperEditor: SaoDigitalAV Technician: Will AlexanderMusic by ProjectifySpotifyYoutube

How do you build confidence and thrive in high-pressure environments like VCE and UCAT preparation? How do you stay motivated when things don’t go as planned? How do you bounce back from setbacks and use them as stepping stones to success? In the fifth episode of the Medical Student Interviews Series, we sit down with Pranav, a first-year Monash University medical student, to explore his inspiring journey into medical school. From navigating the challenges of VCE and underperforming in his first UCAT attempt, to excelling after a transformative gap year, Pranav shares the strategies, lessons, and mindset shifts that helped him succeed. His reflections offer practical guidance and applicable insights for students aspiring to achieve their goals. Pranav dives into: managing the demands of VCE studies while maintaining a social life and extracurricular commitments; developing confidence and resilience after setbacks; rethinking his UCAT preparation after his first attempt and crafting a winning strategy;how his gap year reshaped his approach to studying, mindset, and self-care; the challenges and growth that came from living independently during university; the importance of consistency, a strong support network, and a balanced approach; and much more! Pranav’s story highlights the importance of adaptability, perseverance, and self-awareness in achieving both academic and personal success. Whether you’re preparing for VCE, UCAT, or transitioning to university life, this episode provides valuable strategies and inspiration to help you navigate your own journey with confidence. Interested in joining Contour, or just want to see what we’re all about? You can sign up for a free, no-strings-attached trial of our VCE or UCAT programs and see what makes Contour stand out firsthand! Sign up at http://www.contoureducation.com.au/enrolment ⊳ LISTEN HERE ⊲YoutubeSpotifyApple Podcasts⊳ GET IN TOUCH ⊲WebsiteInstagramFacebook⊳ SPECIAL THANKS TO ⊲Host: James BlanchSpecial Guest: Pranav PraveenEditor: Wazif DeenAV Technician: Will AlexanderMusic by ProjectifySpotifyYoutube

What’s it like to move to a new country for university? How do you manage the transition from high school to university life? How do you prepare for the UCAT, navigate the medical school application process, and excel in interviews? In the fourth episode of the Medical Student Interviews Series, we chat with Jonty, a second-year Monash University medical student from New Zealand. He highlights his experience with moving countries for university, detailing the differences in school systems, the transition from high school to university, and the challenges he faced in when living away from home. He offers insights into preparing for medical entry, including maintaining a healthy study-life balance, effective study tips, applying for Australian and UK medical schools, and UCAT preparation strategies. From navigating applications to competitive programs, to managing major life transitions, Jonty talks about his experiences with — adjusting to life in Australia and settling into university in a new country; comparing the New Zealand and Australian high school systems, and his choice to pursue Cambridge A Levelsbalancing academics, sports, and volunteering during high schooldeveloping effective study habits and prioritising self-carepreparing for medical school applications for both the UK and Australia, including advice on the BMAT, UCAT, and interview strategiesmanaging interview stress with practical tips for staying calm and focusedhis current role as a Medical Admissions Advisor at Contour; andso much more! From acing the UCAT and balancing extracurriculars, to adjusting to university life in a new country, Jonty’s journey is full of applicable insights and practical advice. His experiences highlight the importance of resilience, self-awareness, and self-care in achieving success. With real-world strategies for high school students, UCAT preparation advice, and a glimpse into the medical admissions process, this episode is a must-listen whether you’re considering a career in medicine or simply looking for inspiration to overcome challenges - there’s something for everyone! Interested in joining Contour, or just want to see what we’re all about? You can sign up for a free, no-strings-attached trial of our VCE or UCAT programs and see for yourself what makes Contour stand out! Sign up here. ⊳ LISTEN HERE ⊲ YoutubeSpotifyApple Podcasts⊳ GET IN TOUCH ⊲ WebsiteInstagramFacebook⊳ SPECIAL THANKS TO ⊲ Host: James Blanch Special Guest: Jonty Cook Editor: Wazif Deen AV Technician: Will Alexander Music by Projectify SpotifyYoutube

How do I develop effective habits and avoid burnout in Year 12? How do I handle the pressures of leadership, extracurriculars, and study? How do I transition smoothly from high school to university?These questions are familiar to anyone navigating the high-pressure world of VCE and preparing for a career in medicine. In this episode, we’re joined by Aksharan, a first-year Monash medical student and former school captain, to reflect on his experience managing the demands of high school and beginning his university journey. Growing up in Bendigo and studying at Girton Grammar, Aksharan shares his journey as a school captain, detailing the challenges of managing a leadership position and a rigorous VCE workload.He highlights the importance of a strong support system, maintaining consistency, and staying resilient to achieve his goals. His story offers a perspective on embracing common challenges of high school, and thriving through them!Aksharan details his journey to a 3020 UCAT and a 99.15 ATAR, sharing insights on —balancing extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and academics;the connection between well-being and academic success;navigating subject selection;his motivation for pursuing medicine; andpreparing for and excelling in the UCAT.Aksharan’s journey highlights how resilience, self-awareness, and a strong support network can help you succeed under pressure and find balance. If you’re aiming to balance your commitments, looking for study advice, or curious about transitioning to university life, this episode is packed with insights just for you!Interested in joining Contour, or just want to see what we’re all about? You can sign up for a free, no-strings-attached trial of our VCE or UCAT programs and see for yourself what makes Contour stand out!Sign up at http://www.contoureducation.com.au/enrolment⊳ LISTEN HERE ⊲ YoutubeSpotifyApple Podcasts⊳ GET IN TOUCH ⊲ WebsiteInstagramFacebook⊳ SPECIAL THANKS TO ⊲ Host: James Blanch Special Guest: Aksharan ShobananEditor: Wazif Deen AV Technician: Will Alexander Music by Projectify SpotifyYoutube

How do I manage my time effectively? How do I maintain my mental health in year 12? How do I keep up with the workload needed to get into medicine?As the start of your final year of high school and the time to start UCAT preparation draws closer and closer, these questions become increasingly relevant. So, today we’re talking to Ethan — one of Victoria’s most successful year 12 students of 2023 — to gain insight into his approach to the challenges of high school, entry into medicine, and medical school.In this episode, Ethan, who achieved a 99.40 ATAR and 3310 UCAT in 2023, and is now a medical student and experienced tutor at Contour, shares the strategies and techniques he used to get ahead, and get on top! From the challenges of managing a rigorous academic schedule to securing a high UCAT score, Ethan’s insights offer a real-world guide for students navigating the same path. He shares his approach to:balancing Year 12 studies with his social life;preparing for the UCAT amidst a packed VCE schedule;building effective study habits for sustainable success;staying organised and motivated throughout the year;staying grounded in his goals despite the demands of VCE,and more!With tips drawn directly from his own experiences, Ethan offers practical advice on tackling high school common challenges and provides insight into the mindset that helped him reach his goals. Whether you're aiming for medicine or simply looking for ways to thrive in your final years of high school, this episode provides valuable strategies to make your journey more manageable and rewarding!Interested in joining Contour, or just want to see what we’re all about? You can sign up for a free, no-strings-attached trial of our VCE or UCAT programs and see for yourself what makes Contour stand out!Sign up at http://www.contoureducation.com.au/enrolment⊳ LISTEN HERE ⊲ YoutubeSpotifyApple Podcasts⊳ GET IN TOUCH ⊲ WebsiteInstagramFacebook⊳ SPECIAL THANKS TO ⊲ Host: James Blanch Special Guest: Ethan MyersEditor: Wazif Deen AV Technician: Will Alexander Music by Projectify SpotifyYoutube

How do I choose my VCE subjects? How do I stay motivated throughout Year 11 and Year 12? How do I balance my studies with my social life?These are all common questions that might be running through your head as you approach your final years of high school. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, we’ve sought out one of Victoria’s top achievers to give us his perspective on these shared struggles of VCE students.He’s been there, and done that — and he’s sharing the tips and tricks that helped him excel — all in the form of real-world strategies and insights that you can directly apply!In the first episode of the Medical Interview Series, we sit down with Isaac, a first-year Monash University medical student and UCAT tutor, to explore his journey through VCE and his transition to university life.He shares a candid glimpse into his experiences, including -choosing suitable VCE subjects;balancing extracurriculars with a demanding academic schedule;effective study habits; - managing stress during SAC intensive periods;studying for the UCAT during Year 12;maximising the exam revision period;maintaining self-care habits;and much, much more!We'll delve into how he tackled some of the most common pressures of VCE — from the importance of goal-setting and efficient study techniques to the role of self-care and social support, Isaac’s first-hand experiences provide valuable insight into how you can manage your own VCE journey!Don’t miss this episode - this is your opportunity to hear from someone who's been through it all—and come out on top!Interested in joining Contour, or just want to see what we’re all about? You can sign up for a free, no-strings-attached trial of our VCE or UCAT programs and see what makes Contour stand out firsthand!Sign up at http://www.contoureducation.com.au/enrolment⊳ LISTEN HERE ⊲ YoutubeSpotifyApple Podcasts⊳ GET IN TOUCH ⊲ WebsiteInstagramFacebook⊳ SPECIAL THANKS TO ⊲ Host: James Blanch Special Guest: Isaac PinczewskiEditor: Wazif Deen AV Technician: Will Alexander Music by Projectify SpotifyYoutube

Welcome to The Contour Podcast, where top students and tutors share their journeys and strategies for academic success. Our first series features interviews with medical students from Contour MedPrep, offering real-world insights into getting into medicine. Whether you're aiming for medicine or looking to excel in school, this podcast is packed with actionable advice to help you succeed.