Dr. Donateli Rosa

In a world where the only constant is change, learning how to learn is often more important than the knowledge itself. For Dr. Amanda Donateli Rosa, this truth has defined her recent journey, a transition not just in speciality, but in mindset, methodology, and mission. From a background in general practice to a newfound passion for oncology, Amanda’s story is one of resilience, reflection, and rediscovery through education.

The Search for Something More

Originally from Brazil and practising in Portugal, Amanda wasn’t always sure what her next step in medicine would be. “I’ve always been interested in hospital-based specialties,” she reflects, “and oncology was one of the fields I was drawn to.” When she came across the Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Oncology course with Learna and the University of Buckingham, the structure and subject matter resonated with her. “I thought it would be a good fit, and I was right. It confirmed for me that oncology is the field I want to pursue.”

Adapting to a New Way of Learning

Amanda didn’t start the course with full certainty or ease. Coming from a traditional educational background, she initially found the forum-based learning model unfamiliar and even confusing. “At first, I struggled to see how it would help me learn. But once I got the hang of it, I found it to be a really great way to learn. Honestly, now I think traditional classes are a bit boring - I actually prefer the forum method!”
This shift wasn’t just about style. It mirrored a broader transformation, one that allowed Amanda to become a more efficient learner and more thoughtful practitioner.

New Skills That Stick

One of the most impactful skills Amanda developed was the ability to quickly interpret scientific papers. “I had to read a lot in a short amount of time, so I was forced to improve that skill. Now, I find it easier to search for the right kind of papers and to select what’s most relevant to me.”
That ability has become a daily asset in her clinical practice, enabling her to stay up to date and provide better care. “In medicine, there’s no subject you can’t apply in some way to your everyday work. There’s always a patient who will benefit from what you’ve learned.”

Balancing Study and Life

Amanda’s success didn’t come from perfect conditions, it came from adaptability. “I realized early on that I couldn’t finish everything in one sitting,” she says. Her strategy was to check in with the forums multiple times a week, contributing when she could and working on major assignments when time allowed.
Toward the end of the course, she faced personal challenges and needed an extension. “Student Services were very supportive, and everything worked out fine. I just had to adjust my expectations and be flexible with how I used my time.”

Support That Made a Difference

From technical questions to moments of uncertainty, Amanda found reassurance in the support she received from Learna. “Anytime I had a question or needed help, especially when I couldn’t reach my tutor directly, I’d contact Student Services. They always managed to help.”
That consistent backup helped her stay on track, and strengthened her confidence as a learner.

A Future Reimagined

So what’s next? Amanda’s immediate plan is to welcome her daughter into the world. After that, she’s considering another international move and pursuing a full specialisation in oncology. “I loved the course so much that I want to become an oncologist. I don’t have all the details worked out yet, but that’s the bigger goal.”

Learning for Growth - Not Just for a Title

Amanda’s motivation wasn’t solely about career progression. “A bit of both,” she says. “But mainly a love of learning and a desire to push myself.” She didn’t know exactly where she was heading when she started - but through learning, she found her path.

A Message for Future Learners

“It’s not as easy as you might think,” Amanda advises, “but it’s also not so hard that you can’t do it.” Her recommendation? Take time at the beginning to understand the structure, be open to adapting, and connect with others along the way.

Conclusion: A Journey of Discovery

Amanda’s story is more than a change in career. It’s about the courage to be a beginner again - to learn, to grow, and to follow curiosity wherever it leads. Her journey reminds us that learning isn’t just for the early stages of our careers - it’s a lifelong tool for transformation.
And sometimes, that next course or new skill isn’t just a qualification - it’s a whole new direction.