Through sport I learned valuable skills that I have utilised throughout my life, particularly in my career. Being a team player for instance, is an essential skill in the health profession, especially in high stress situations. 

We were blessed with a great teacher (shout out to Mr Nottingham), who ignited my interest in travel and nature. This passion for travel evolved into a fascination with diverse cultures, which has led me to some wonderful places around the world. In 2010 I headed off to university in Wagga and during this time I spent most of my summer breaks traveling and immersing myself in foreign cultures. This interest led me to apply for a graduate nurse position in Alice Springs.

On an average day at Alice Springs Hospital, I am involved with the care of Indigenous Australians from many different Indigenous nations, each with their own language, cultural practices and beliefs. My time here has taught me about the beautiful diversity of my own country. I planned on only stopping in Alice for a year, but during this time red dirt got in my soul and I fell madly in love with the outback and the uniqueness of the work here. I went on to work in the intensive care unit and specialised in critical care nursing. I thoroughly enjoy the challenge and complexity of an intensive care environment. At present I am working as a graduate nurse educator  supporting junior nurses and nursing students at Alice Springs Hospital. 

My little piece of advice to the students reading this would be, don’t forget to be a kind person. You don’t have to be an exceptional person, how kind and compassionate you are says more about your character than all of the other things combined.