August 31, 2022Kaytlin Wills is a current student in our medical nursing postgraduate program, and was the recipient of the 2021-2022 Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Scholarship from the Department of Health.
After completing her Bachelor degree at Deakin University, Katy gained a graduate position with Northern Health and has worked here for the last four years, on pool and now on Ward 22.
Katy says she decided to take up postgraduate studies to enhance her nursing skills.
“I wanted to improve my clinical skills and knowledge base so that I could provide my patients with the best care possible, but I wasn’t sure where to start. My mentor Nat encouraged me to look into postgrad courses,” Katy said.
“I’m only half way through the postgrad, but I’ve found that I have gained a deeper understanding of patient conditions through more in-depth knowledge of pathophysiology, which allows me to provide better care for my patients – and I deliver that care with more confidence as well.”
“The postgrad has also allowed me to step into a leadership role within the ward I work on – I feel comfortable assisting and educating my colleagues when it’s needed.”
Katy explains she receives a range of support from the education team, as well as her fellow postgraduates.
“I’m doing a 2×2 course, so half of my content is provided through Northern – the education team here are amazing and are always available to help out if I feel like I’m struggling. My biggest support, though, would be the other nurses that are also doing their postgrad. We’ve formed great friendships and all lean on each other for support,” she said.
“The scholarship has also removed the financial burden studying can sometimes place on you – I’ve been able to access the equipment and resources I need to succeed in my postgrad. It also serves as a bit of an extra push to do well throughout the course – I don’t want the scholarship to have gone to waste, so I push myself that extra little bit!”
For anyone thinking about undertaking postgraduate studies at Northern Health, Katy says that, despite being challenging at times, it’s most definitely worth it.
“The 2×2 program is great and opens up doors for further career development at Northern. It’s a great way to improve your patient care and progress your career, but, you need to be able to dedicate yourself. I would also say, make sure you have a good support system around you and utilise your peers, because that’s what will get you through your studies.”
As Northern Health continues to grow, the opportunity to advance your career in a variety of nursing specialties expands. Our postgraduate programs prepare registered nurses to function competently within a chosen specialty nursing area, and provide a pathway towards Clinical Nurse Specialist, Associate Nurse Unit Manager, Nurse Unit Manager and Nurse Practitioner roles. To learn more about postgraduate nursing at Northern Health, click here.
