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Daisy’s year of growth and change opens future doors

The completion of her placement and graduate program at St John of God Ballarat Hospital has been a transformative experience for Graduate Registered Nurse, Daisy as she shares how the graduate program expanded her skill set and opened doors to a future in midwifery.

12 Mar 2024

You initially did a placement with us. How did that experience lead to applying for our graduate program?

It was from working alongside graduate nurses during my placement who were all well supported by the nursing team and the educator on the ward. They said having someone around to help or teach them helped with their skill development and that was something I was looking for.

Why did you choose the St John of God Health Care graduate program?

I chose the St John of God Health Care Graduate program as I viewed the program as being very supportive. Having an educator dedicated to the graduates on each ward, as opposed to one person for the entire program was a deciding factor as it meant I had someone always there to support, teach and help me grow as a nurse and person.

In one sentence, describe your overall experience of our graduate program?

A year filled with growth and change, keeping in mind that change is positive even when it can sometimes be painful or challenging.

What would you say are some of the key benefits of doing a graduate program with St John of God Health Care?

St John of God Health Care is smaller than public hospitals, but it has such a strong sense of community. Everyone knows each other, and you never feel lonely, there is always someone around willing to help.

What feelings did you experience on your first days and weeks of the graduate program and how were you supported through these early stages?

In the early stages of the graduate program, I was felt nervous, shy and lacked self-confidence. I relied on my nursing buddy, educator, nursing caregivers and the Allied Health team each shift but over time I built rapport with these people and the support I received was immense. They all wanted to teach and help me grow.

What learning were you provided and how did this help you determine your future career path/speciality?

During the year I was constantly provided with theoretical and practical learning opportunities. If something new or exciting was happening on the ward staff always volunteered/supported the graduates to give it a go. It also really helped that the educator had a theoretical document for every skill you can think of, so often post learning a practical skill, I would be provided with theoretical information to help embed the newfound skill.

How has St John of God cared for you so you can care for others?

By encouraging new graduates to take each day as it is. Allowing them to take a bit longer to learn new skills, or providing an extra break if things become too overwhelming. St John of God Health Care has provided me with a patient and nurturing environment to allow me to grow as a nurse, as well as a person.

Daisy is now completing a Graduate Diploma of Midwifery as she continues her career with St John of God Health Care.

Want to follow in Daisy’s footsteps? Visit here to find out more about our graduate nursing programs.