Certificate IV in Nursing
Jan Lorimer Award 2010

I had been working in aged care nursing hostels as a Personal Care Assistant and Infection Control Officer for two years, when  I decided I wanted to gain registration as a Division 2 nurse with medication endorsement.

Having been out of the education system for such a long time, I doubted my ability to study again. I started with baby steps and enrolled in a Certificate II in Aged Care course and topped the class. Knowing that I could do this I then set about applying for nursing. I was unsuccessful in my first attempt, but, undeterred, I reapplied the following year and successfully gained a place.

I have had the help and support of a great group of classmates, fellow workers in the field as well as the invaluable support of the Bendigo TAFE library staff. The teaching staff were a constant source of inspiration with their knowledge and support throughout the year. And throughout my studies I continued to work part-time.

My plan was to finish my nursing studies at Bendigo TAFE within the top 5 percent of the class. This has been achieved. I successfully applied to La Trobe University to gain additional qualifications through the Division 1 Nursing Conversion Course and will graduate in 2012. I am combining this study with part-time employment at St John of God Hospital Bendigo. On completion of my studies I hope to volunteer my services for 12 months in either rural/remote Australia or a third world country. My long-term plan is to manage a nursing home.

I have already encouraged several of my aged care colleagues to apply for nursing. It has been a very enjoyable experience. My gratitude for the teachers, knows no bounds, they are a truly remarkable group whose knowledge, expertise and support has been endless and gratefully received.

"I was unsuccessful in my first attempt, but, undeterred, I reapplied the following year and successfully gained a place in Certificate IV Nursing."