Russ Johnson
 Russ Johnson at the Blue Mountains, near Katomba |
 Russ at Inskip Point, Rainbow beach, Fraser Island |
 Russ at Overland track, Tasmania |
Fulbright Postgraduate Scholar (2006-2007)
Scholar story
“From working for a distinguished leader in the malaria research community, to learning to surf on some of the best surf breaks in the world, whilst living in one of the most ethically diverse cities that exists, my Fulbright experience has been both a challenge and a blast, but also a great time for personal growth and development.”
When Russ applied for a Fulbright he thought it would be a great way to get some more laboratory experience, while seeing a bit more of the world, however his Fulbright Scholarship to Melbourne to study a malaria causing parasite provided more than he imagined.
“I left the United States a high strung, burnt out, recent college grad, who had dedicated his whole to the pursuit of gaining acceptance into medical school. I never would have imagined when I left the United States that one year later I would be more relaxed than ever before, whilst continuing to thrive academically in an international setting.”
“Nor would I have imagined that I would extend my stay in Australia, and put off medical school yet another year to continue with my Fulbright research. This is to say that my Fulbright experience has forever changed my life, and I am thankful for being given the opportunity to be part of such a program,” Russ said.
A big part of Russ’s Fulbright research has meant extending his laboratory research skills which he has welcomed.
“I have learnt more about laboratory research this part year than I did as a science student for four years during university. What I have really enjoyed is that I haven’t been learning by reading books, cramming for exams, or doing assignments. I go to work and I read independently when I don’t understand something.”
“Suddenly, I understand dense science papers, am able to interpret data on my own, even present it in a confident way to colleagues with much more experience than I have.”
Russ’s Fulbright research has taught him the value of self-learning, something that will certainly benefit him in his future career as a physician in the rapidly evolving field of medicine and biomedical research.
“On a personal level, my Fulbright experience has been incredible, not only in that I have learned the importance and benefit of striking a healthy balance between work and play, but also from an international and personal growth perspective. On a day to day basis, I work with scientists from every corner of the globe.”
“I have gone through a much-needed period of personal growth after being holed up in my University’s library for four years. I truly do feel like I have gained an international perspective as a result, and am a better-rounded person than I was a year ago.”