Mikaela Beagley, a 2019 BSSC alumni, recently shared her insights and experiences with the Year 1 VET Allied Health cohort on Tuesday and Wednesday morning this week.
Mikaela, a registered nurse at Bendigo Health, once sat in the very same seats as the students she addressed at BSSC.
During her talk, Mikaela spoke candidly about the highs and lows of working in the healthcare system; offering valuable advice on managing mental health while dealing with traumatic events.
She also provided an in-depth look at the daily realities of the healthcare profession.
The students were highly engaged, asking thoughtful questions such as:
“Even after years of experience, do you still feel nervous?”
“What options are available if you don’t achieve the ATAR you want but still wish to pursue a career in healthcare?”
“What has been the most traumatic injury you’ve encountered?”
Mikaela emphasised the wide range of opportunities within healthcare, stressing that success in the field comes down to determination and a clear focus on the future career you want.
It was a privilege to have a former BSSC student return to share her journey—offering these aspiring healthcare professionals a real-life perspective on the day-to-day workings of the industry.
Mikaela also highlighted the importance of studying Allied Health, explaining how it significantly supported her transition into university.
Having already been introduced to many core concepts, she felt better prepared and ahead of the curve.
The nurse encouraged students to work closely with their teachers, seek help when needed, and view teachers as part of their support network—always there to assist in achieving their goals.
It was an inspiring and insightful session that left a lasting impact on the students, providing them with a valuable glimpse into the realities of a career in healthcare.
The BSSC Allied Health students would like to extend their thanks to Mikaela and her contribution to delivering the wonderful care she does to the Bendigo community.
