What did you study? When did you graduate?
I studied a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) at the University of the Sunshine Coast. I graduated In 2020.
How did you choose your field of study?
I had worked in a post-school disability service where clients were offered ongoing education and vocational training. As well as my clients Inspiring me to learn, we would have OT students do emerging role placements. I eventually enrolled at uni. At 41 I started my degree.
What was your interview process like?
I found the Interview process to be very welcoming. Every person I had contact with was very helpful. For me, it was so weird being Interviewed via Zoom. I remember having sticky notes all around my computer screen, however In the end I didn’t need to use them, It was a very friendly Interview.
What were your first impressions of the graduate program?
I loved that all the new grads for QLD met In the Brisbane office. It was a great opportunity to meet the others starting. The first couple of days were a blur. We had a new grad Team chat, and because we had met one another It wasn’t as daunting asking questions.
It was great having the guideline of the training modules we were expected to do, time went so fast as we learnt new things.
What are your areas of responsibility?
I am seeing clients In all areas of disability. From pads to housing. I like learning different areas of practice.
What do you love the most about your job?
I love the flexibility of my job. I like that some days I work from home, out visiting clients and at least one day In the local office. My office day Is very Important to me. I like to catch up with my team and have a bit of fun.
What is the best thing about your team?
We all support one another. It doesn’t matter how experienced you are or you’re age, we all help each other out. I always look forward to our fun fund outings. We have been to play mini-golf, out for dinner a couple of times. This week we are doing a pottery (and wine) night.
What have you found difficult to adjust to?
I found working full-time hours hard to adjust to. Even though the years at uni were very busy, blocking out full days, five days per week Is still a bit of getting used to. I had previously worked part-time hours for years.
Managing my caseload can be difficult at times, I had to learn very quickly that I couldn’t do everything for everyone all at once.
How have our mentoring sessions helped you?
Mentoring sessions are amazing. As my caseload and CAT increased, I found I wasn't going to as many as I should. I have had to consciously make sure I attend, even If I don't have a question, they are a great way to learn
How would you describe our clinical support?
Starting a new career Is daunting. The clinical support I was, and still am given Is has been invaluable.
How would you describe our supervision structure?
Supervision Is an opportunity to grow as an OT. There Is no doubt that there are many times of feeling overwhelmed. Supervision can be very grounding, both group and individual sessions.
What are the career prospects with your job?
So many varying opportunities within National 360. At this stage, I am not wanting to specialise In any particular area of practice, but to keep meeting new clients and learning from each and every one of them
Which three pieces of advice would you give to your past self when you were in University?