University of Tasmania, Australia

Course

Graduated with Bachelor of Biomedical Science in 2008.
Currently studying Master of Medical Science through Charles Sturt University

Current Position

Laboratory Supervisor of QML Pathology in Gladstone, QLD.

Story

I commenced my degree in 2005 as a full time student. During this time I was fortunate enough to be employed part-time at Launceston Pathology. This allowed me to understand the practical aspect of what I was learning in the classroom and gave me an idea of what life would be like after university. My practicum was completed at North West pathology over summer before starting as a relieving scientist for QML pathology in March 2008. I graduated in August 2008 and was appointed laboratory supervisor in Gladstone in June 2009.

My current employer is QML Pathology. They offered me a scientific position without any graduate work experience and provided me with all the necessary training required. I was first employed as a relieving scientist travelling all around Queensland. This was a great opportunity and I recommend it to anyone who likes to travel and still earn money at the same time. QML helped pay for flights, food and accommodation and I found it a great way to meet new people. The other obvious advantage is that you are looked more highly upon by future employers as you have experience in multiple labs and can fit in easily into a new environment. Multi-skilled scientists allow for you to work in any department and can therefore gain an understanding of all aspects of pathology and also allow you to find out which areas you prefer to work in later on in life.

The major benefit of the Biomedical Science degree at UTAS is that it is AIMS (Australian Institute of Medical Scientists) accredited degree, which allows graduates to be admitted directly into the association. UTAS also has a very good reputation for training excellent scientists, and are always looked highly upon when applying for positions .I am currently studying a Master of Medical Science through Charles Sturt University by distance education. This allows for me to continue my education while still working full time. It also allows for publication of articles and recognition for work that you have done.

The opportunities for scientific positions on the mainland (especially in Queensland) continues to grow. If anyone is keen to travel to Queensland and would like to work as a scientist, then please don't hesitate to contact me.

Course

Graduated with Bachelor of Biomedical Science with Honours in 2003.

Current position

In 2006, was working as a Medical Scientist in Launceston.

Story

I began studying the Bachelor of Biomedical Science at the University of Tasmania in 1999. I decided to apply for this degree after visiting the school for an orientation day while in year 12.  We were taken on a tour of the different disciplines within the school and participated in hands-on activities such as testing our own blood groups which really sparked my interest in medical laboratory science.

I enjoyed studying Biomedical Science, as everything I was learning was totally new to me and it was so interesting learning about all of the different substances and reactions within the body. I found it very interesting when we were able to begin looking at everything we had learnt in a more practical light by examining case studies. 

I also gained some invaluable work experience at the Royal Hobart Hospital where I spent a month working in Special Haematology.  Here I learnt about specialised testing I might not otherwise have ever had the opportunity to experience, such as cell marker studies and bone marrow harvests and transplants.

After completing the first three years of the degree I was offered a place within the Honours program where I was able to choose which discipline I wanted to study within and which of the available projects I wanted to work on.  I chose to work on a Microbiology/Molecular Biology project with Steven Tristram looking at mechanisms of antibiotic resistance within Haemophilus influenzae.  This was by far the best decision I had ever made because I believe that it really gave me an edge over those who studied the general three year degree.  I was able to focus an entire year on a single topic. I learned a lot of new laboratory techniques and worked by myself most of the time which was very different to the previous three years.  I also spent some time in the Molecular Medicine lab at the RHH where I helped out with their routine work and also learned some new skills I was able to apply to my own project. 
My honours year was one of the best years I experienced at Uni as I felt more independent and gained so much confidence in myself and my abilities as a scientist, and the best part was that my work was collated with my supervisor's and another student's into a journal article that was published in 2005.

Just before graduating from my Honours year I was offered a Graduate Scientist position at Launceston Pathology, and four years on I am still working there as a scientist.  I work primarily in the Haematology department which is responsible for routine Haematology, Coagulation and Transfusion testing for our own lab as well as Immunology and Special Coagulation testing for the three laboratories within our company around the state.  I also work on an after hours roster where a single scientist is responsible for all departments as well as the collection of samples from hospital in-patients. 

Initially, working within the laboratory was so exciting because I was finally able to put all of the knowledge I had accumulated at Uni into practice.  Everything started to make more sense and it was great to be able to figure out what was happening with a particular patient by looking at their results, blood film morphology, clinical details etc.  I have found that my interest in this work has continued to grow as even today there is always something new happening and interesting cases coming through which you can follow as they continue to come through the lab for ongoing testing.  I also enjoy the opportunities we are given to travel interstate to attend continuing education workshops and national scientific meetings.

Another great thing about the work that I do is that I am not always confined to the laboratory and I am able to meet face-to-face with patients within the hospitals our company services.  This helps put a face to a name and remind you that even though at times to you they may be just another sample coming through the lab, the lives of real people are affected by the work that you do.

Course

Graduated with Bachelor of Biomedical Science in 1993.

Current position

In 2005, was working as a Technical and Sales representative in Melbourne.

Story

“I got a job straight away – Health Science Courses in Tasmania are very highly regarded on the mainland.”

Diagnostic Laboratories, Royal Melbourne, Alfred Hospital as well as Private Pathologist in Victoria

"I have also worked overseas  - Asia and Singapore as Tech Support making kits.

"Malaysia for 2 years with Gribbles – an Australian Pathology company as Head of Specimen Reception, in charge of other staff, specimen processing, handling all the inquiries and problems plus training other staff on Laboratory Information System.

"Currently a Territory Manager, in sales and marketing, technical support, selling kits and instrumentation for diagnostic labs and life sciences with a focus on molecular biochemistry."

Course

Graduated with Bachelor of Biomedical Science in 2001.

Current position

In 2006, working in the Histology department in a Hospital in North East London.

Story

Hi, I completed a Bachelor of Biomedical Science in 2001 at the University of Tasmania.  I really enjoyed the course, especially the fact that the classes were small and we studied all the areas of Pathology instead of having to specialize in one area like some of the other University Courses did in the rest of Australia.  Also there was a lot of practical work which was very helpful in applying all the things we learned in lectures and tutorials.  Microbiology was especially good in this respect.  I found all the lecturers very helpful and approachable too. 

After graduating I moved to Hobart and worked at Hobart Pathology for two years.  During that time I gained experience in Histology, Biochemistry and Haematology.  I also did a little bit of Transfusion as well.  After working there for two years, and saving all my money I decided to move overseas and do some locum work in the UK.  I signed up with an agency and I arrived in London on a Wednesday and started work the following Monday.

At the moment I am working in the Histology department in a Hospital in North East London and I'm living quite close by in Hampstead, which is a very nice area where lots of celebrities live, like Emma Thompson, Helen Bonham-Carter, Bill Oddie and until recently Jamie Oliver but he moved to Primrose Hill because people kept knocking on his door in the small hours and asking for a bacon sarnie!  

I am also doing a fair bit of traveling in the UK and Europe.  The picture shows me lounging on the waterfront in Isla Cristina, Andalucia, Spain.  I have even had the chance to spend five weeks traveling in Thailand and China. I would like to do some more study in the future and perhaps when my visa runs out do some work in developing countries.

So, doing my Bachelor of Biomedical Science was one of the most useful things I have ever done and has allowed me to travel around and see places and do things that I would never have thought possible.

Thanks to all who helped me get my Degree!!!!!!

Course

Graduated with Bachelor of Health Science in 2007.

Current position

In 2009, studying Master of Nutrition and Dietetics through Griffith University.

Story

During the course of my health science degree at Utas I realised that I had an extremely keen interest in learning more about food and nutrition, this lead to my application to the Master of Nutrition and Dietetics program at Griffith University.

I completed Health Science, moved to Queensland and now, almost two years later, I am in the process of completing my final professional placement for the Masters program. Placement has provided me with so many fantastic experiences, all of which have enabled me to develop my employment skills.

Dietetics provides opportunity to work in many areas, including clinical, community, sports nutrition and private practice.

Health Science at Utas not only provides student with the opportunity to work in areas such as health promotion and environmental health after graduating, it is also a great foundation for further study in all health related areas, such as medicine, physiotherapy and nutrition and dietetics.

I am thoroughly looking forward to completing my Masters and beginning my career as a dietitian.

Course

Graduated with Bachelor of Biomedical Science in 1991.

Current position

In 2006, was working as Haematology and Blood Bank Manager at a Pathology Laboratory in Melbourne.

Story

I completed the Bachelor of Biomedical Science in 1991, where I majored in Haematology and Microbiology. After graduating, I worked for the next 14 years for Diagnostic Services, the major private pathology practice in Tasmania. I started as a Medical Scientist at North West Pathology in Burnie where I gained experience in all areas of the laboratory, multiskilling in Haematology, Biochemistry and Microbiology and participated in the on-call roster.

In 1994 I was able to transfer to Launceston Pathology where I was employed initially in Biochemistry for two years and then moved to Haematology for about 6 years.

During 2003 I was seconded to work as a business analyst for Haematology on the installation of the new state-wide laboratory information system for Diagnostic Services Pty Ltd. Following the successful implementation of the Apollo LIS I was appointed Senior Scientist in charge of Haematology and Biochemistry at Launceston Pathology.

In 2005 I was appointed Haematology and Blood Bank Manager for Melbourne Pathology. Melbourne Pathology is a major private pathology provider in Victoria and is part of the worldwide Sonic Healthcare group. In my current role I manage a large staff which provides routine haematology, coagulation, blood bank, flow cytometry and special haematology services. I also have continued involvement in the ongoing development of the Apollo system.

Whilst in Tasmania I was an active member of the Australian Institute of Medical Scientists (AIMS) and served on both Branch Committees and on an organising committee for a National Conference.

Course

Graduated with Bachelor of Health Science in 2006.

Current position

In 2007, was studying master of physiotherapy at the University of Queensland.

Story

I started a bachelor of Health Science at the Launceston campus at UTas from 2004 to 2006. I enjoyed every moment of my study in the friendly environment in the friendly School of Human Life Sciences. There are many reasons as to why I chose Health Science.

I just migrated from Africa due to many reasons you don't want to know. Before I migrated I studied Electrical Engineering for a year, then study Sociology for three years, both did not bring me any satisfaction. Therefore I wanted to do something new, something I've always wanted to do, something that can help someone else, something in Health Science; my best subjects in high school. Medicine was too much, Nursing scared me, I don't like tablets so I couldn't do pharmacy. Health Science was the answer to my quest.

At the end of my first year in Health Science I already knew what I wanted to do after I graduated. This is due to the many streams in Health Science. I love sports and being physically active as well living a healthy lifestyle, therefore the stream of Exercise Physiology and Health just complemented my desires of sport. Again, my wife, Johanna, a Tassie girl, whom I married while studying also loved a healthy lifestyle (we now have to baby boys, Josiah and Daniel).

So far so good, are you confused or bored? Stand up and stretch.

I'm not the smartest student, and I don't even work hard, but I stress a lot more. If you ever meet Associate Professor Dominic, tell him to go to the gym regularly, for it is good for his belly. If it was not for him, I would not have completed my degree. For example, one day I was stressed real good about an assignment and Dominic noticed this, he sternly warned me to get myself DISCIPLINE. That's all what kept me here. Dr Simon Brown, a friend who left me wondering that there is more in Biomedical Science than life, and if I studied Health Science I would help others. Dr Frank Madill told me that pathology could be wiped out if there were more health professionals. Oh yes, if you have not met Lesley Harrison, please do as soon as possible because she is the enzyme that will put a smile on your face.

In summary, the Bachelor of Health Science is the best course to do, with good lectures and a friendly environment to support you.

I went on to study Physiotherapy in 2006 & 2007 where I unfortunately sustained a sports injury. The surgeon recommended that I should not continue my studies because of the manual handling component of the job which might aggravate the injury. I went onto undertake a few different jobs at different schools as a Migrant Liaison Officer, Teacher Aide/Supporting staff and Chaplaincy. During this time I decided to start my Honors with the Menzies Research Institute in Hobart which I completed in 2008. I have since resigned from school position in the middle of 2009.

At the end of 2009 I was admitted into the Graduate Entry Master Of Occupational Therapy at the University of South Australia. I have just completed my last placement at the Royal Hobart Hospital and been offered two positions – one with a private company called KONET, and the other part time work with Calvary Hospital in Hobart. I am currently deciding which one to accept which will maximise my experience as a new graduate.

Course

Graduated with Bachelor of Biomedical Science with Honours in 2004.

Current position

In 2006, was studying for a PhD at School of Human Life Sciences in Launceston.

Story

“The degree lets you study many different fields involved in the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of diseases and once completed allows you to work in field with a  wide range of opportunities and most importantly it is interesting and fun!

"My project is entitled “Tachykinins, NK1 receptors and VR1 receptors in the rat urinary bladder and spinal cord: Effects of capsaicin.

"I have now started my PhD looking at the relationship between TRPV1 and disease, and would ultimately like to work in medical research."

Course

Graduated with Bachelor of Health Science in 2006.

Current position

In 2008, Health Promotion Officer at Eat Well Tasmania.

Story

Since graduating from Bachelor of Health Science in 2006 I have worked as the Health Promotion Officer at Eat Well Tasmania. The health promotion units I studied as part of Health Science have proven to be extremely useful and the number of health promotion career opportunities is increasing in Tassie so it is a great career option if you do not necessarily want to go on to further study after Health Science.

At the moment I am still working for Eat Well Tas three days a week on a Burnie-based project, Eat Right Grow Bright. The project focuses on nutrition, physical activity, breastfeeding and oral health for families with children under the age of five in the Burnie area. This job is really varied and involves everything from cooking activities with children to completing funding submissions.

I am also employed by the University Department of Rural Health two days a week as part of the Researcher Development Program. I am doing a small research project over 12 months and being trained in all areas of research. The aim of the program is to encourage health professionals to consider further study (PhD) and to encourage the use of research within our current workplaces. I am doing a document analysis of print media (newspapers and magazines) looking at whether ‘old age’ is portrayed as ‘a time for action’ or ‘a winding down of life and limb’.

I did some volunteer work with the Heart Foundation while I studied, which gave me some practical knowledge when I was applying for jobs and was actually a lot of fun. Health Science was a great starting block for both of my current jobs, but I have definitely learnt a lot since I graduated!

Course

Graduated with Bachelor of Biomedical Science in 2001.

Current position

In 2006, was working as a Medical Scientist in London.

Story

I studied a Bachelor of Biomedical Science at the Launceston Campus of the University of Tasmania from 1999-2001. I had originally wanted to do Medicine but when I missed out by 0.1 points.

I chose to do Biomedical Science instead with the view of transferring over to Medicine after the first year. However I decided not to as I was enjoying the course and the uni life in Launceston so much (Launceston is not as bad as you think!!).

The things I enjoyed the most about the course were the small classes and hence the high level of tuition you could receive from the lecturers, the broad range of subjects we studied as we did not have to specialise in one area like some Biomedical Science degrees and of course the friends that I made.

Since graduating I have had a pretty interesting time. Our multi skilled background gave us a lot more job opportunities. I got a job in a private laboratory in Darwin in the Northern Territory as I had a great interest in Tropical Pathology.  I spent two years working in Darwin and had an amazing experience.

I then moved to London and have been here for over 2 years working as a locum. Because of my experience in Darwin and the fact that I am multi skilled I have worked in a variety of hospitals in many different departments including a specialised Haematology unit, Microbiology, Haemastasis and even a short stint in a Cytology lab. The beauty of working as a locum is that I'm my own boss and can decide when I want time off so I have been doing a lot of travelling. So far I have been to over 12 countries in the 2 years that I have been here with a few more trips planned in the next few weeks.

In the future I'm looking to get a Masters in Tropical Pathology and hopefully work in third world countries on parasite eradication programs.

Had it not been for the enthusiasm that my lecturers imparted on me and the high level of standard that the degree demands of and in turn delivers to it students I'm sure I would have had a very different and perhaps not as interesting time since graduating.

THANKS AGAIN TO ALL IN THE BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE DEGREE!!!

Course

Graduated with Bachelor of Biomedical Science with Honours in 2004.

Current position

In 2005, was studying for a PhD at UTAS in Hobart.

Story

I completed the Bachelor of Biomedical Science with Honours in 2004. The course offered in Launceston is great. It is interesting, as it gives a great introduction to the mechanics of human body and how every system fits together. It gives a great insight into the diagnostics, making it extremely easy to get out there in the “real world”. This degree is very versatile and gives you freedom to shift from one area to another quite easily, also giving you a chance to specialise in a particular area if you so desire.

During my practical placement at Launceston Pathology I was able to work in different departments. I enjoyed working in Haematology and Clinical Chemistry as well as Histology. I also had a chance to work for the stem lab at the Royal Hobart Hospital, which was quite different as it was a specialised lab.

My absolute favourite area of diagnostic work would have to be Microbiology. It is very hands on and requires a lot of skill. At the same time its fun and fascinating.

Microbiology is the area that I chose to specialise in. In my honours year I undertook a project looked at the relative effect of TEM promoter type on Haemophilus influenzae and Escherichia coli.

At present time in working in the Microbiology department at the Royal Hobart Hospital as a scientist. I enjoy my work and always have a great time.

I’m also currently in pursuit of a PhD in microbiology. My project is focused on Listeria monocytogenes and the genes responsible for its persistence and prevalence in food, which is linked to its pathogenesis.

During my 4 years at uni I obtained the skills necessary to obtain employment in a diagnostic laboratory and also great research skills. 

Course

Graduated with Bachelor of Health Science in 2003.

Current position

In 2007, commenced honours as well as working full time as a Clinical Research Assistant for the School of Nursing and Midwifery, UTAS.

Story

My early career was in admin, starting as a receptionist, and working my way through various different roles and organisations. I left work to have children, and after 10 years at home, I decided that I might like to do some study. In 1999 I completed a pre-tertiary unit on Human Biology at Newstead College. I loved every minute of it, achieving good results, and decided that a University degree in Health or Science was in order.

I started out in the Bachelor of Applied Science and transferred over in my second year into the first intake for the Bachelor of Health Science. This degree gave me the flexibility to study a wide variety of subjects according to my interests and learning needs. As a mature aged student, with many demands on my time outside of University, it was necessary to remain highly focused, employing time management skills and determination to achieve the long-term goal of a degree. I found that getting high marks was good and bad, in that once achieving a high mark, I was driven to keep attaining the same level of success. Fortunately, my family was supportive, and allowed me the “time off” to lock myself away and study.

When I completed the degree in 2003, my long term goal of postgraduate study interstate did not eventuate. I spent the next two years working in health and community care. I used this time to gain experience in management, and care coordination whilst exploring further opportunities to achieve my science/health aspirations.

In 2006 I commenced work as a Clinical Research Assistant, for The School of Nursing and Midwifery, UTAS. This role has enabled me to recall those academic skills which I gained within my degree, and apply them in my daily work. In 2007 I am commencing my honours year whilst working full-time. I am looking forward to developing my research skills through this experience. Completing the Bachelor of Health Science at UTAS has vastly expanded my career options, and was worth the years of sacrifice and hard work as a student.

Course

Graduated with Bachelor of Biomedical Science in 2004.

Current position

In 2005, was studying Medicine at UTAS in Hobart.

Story

“Being older definitely helped me realize what I want to do with life, and increased my willingness to work as hard as I could to make my dream a reality.

"I undertook work experience at Launceston Pathology where I worked in areas of haematology, blood banking, immunology, histology and microbiology, I spent the longest time in Haematology , I enjoyed the area of micro the most as a medical scientist because it was the most hands on."

Brad has been given an Australian Government funded medical school placement and has been given the opportunity to study medicine and then practice for 6 years in areas where there are fewer doctors than the national average.

"One interesting feature of the scheme is that if as a bonded doctor, I decide that I really like a particular place, I can stay as long as I want even if the area no longer has a shortage of doctors."

Course

Graduated with Bachelor of Biomedical Science in 2005.

Current position

In 2006, was working as a scientist with Queensland Medical Laboratory, Gold Coast, Queensland.

Story

I am from Malaysia and I graduated with a Bachelor of Biomedical Science from the University of Tasmania in 2005. I heard about The University of Tasmania from a higher education agent back in my hometown in Sibu, Sarawak.

Tasmania is really affordable place to live, and I really enjoyed my time there. It is a lovely natural island with a relaxed lifestyle and friendly and welcoming people. International tourists spend thousands of dollars to visit Tasmania, so I consider myself lucky to be have been able to live and study there for 4 years, travel around the island AND get a degree.

The University of Tasmania offers one of the top Biomedical Science courses in Australia and New Zealand. It is an AIMS (Australian Institute of Medical Scientists) accredited degree, which means that graduates are admitted directly into the professional association and this is really helpful when looking for a job. Relatively small class sizes mean that the lecturers can give students individual attention during practicals and tutorials and get to know the students well on a personal level. “Imagine having burgers and chips and chatting away with your lecturers at McDonalds; that was what we did”. Also the lecturers are quite approachable, so you are able to knock on their office door at lunch break to ask some questions or just to have a chat while they frantically munch on their sandwiches.

As an international student, after graduating, I had to spend some time dealing with an application for Permanent Residency. Fortunately after a few months, I was granted the visa. I then began to look for employment, going through as many ads as I could. The University of Tasmania trains students as a multi-skilled scientists, providing options to go for different jobs. So I constantly had to remind myself that as a fresh graduate I should not limit myself, I applied for various types of jobs in the field – medical scientists, lab technicians, research assistants etc.  I am so proud to be a graduate from The University of Tasmania because when I started working, I realised the course is extremely well designed to prepare students for the future careers.

I am currently employed as multi-skilled scientist by QML at Gold Coast, Queensland. Just another great place to be!! QML took me in without any working experience and provide me series of intensive training. I am currently working in various departments including Haematology, Blood Bank, Biochemistry and Microbiology, rostered in Southport main laboratory and 2 local hospitals. Gaining experience from work is the most important thing to me right now and I will certainly be looking at furthering my studies in the near future.

Course

Graduated with Bachelor of Exercise Science in 2011.

Current position

In 2011, was completing his honours degree at the School of Human Life Sciences.

Story

During the Exercise Science degree at UTAS there have been quite a number of contacts and opportunities which I have taken advantage of that have assisted me in future employment. Whilst studying I had the opportunity to complete a Certificate III in Fitness through Polytechnic Tasmania and began working as a Fitness Instructor taking performance boxing classes and as a Personal Trainer at Keep Fit Management in Launceston which assisted me with cash flow during this time.

I also undertook a strength and conditioning role with AFL Tasmania working as the Northern Tasmania Strength Coach for the U/18 Mariners Squad.

I am currently completing my Honours degree in Exercise Science with my research project investigating the effects of caffeine on 40 km time trial performance in the heat. I also work part time as a workplace rehabilitation provider for Total Outcome, specialising in exercise-based rehabilitation programs and workplace interventions.

In regard to my coaching roles I have continued coaching for the U/18 Mariners Squad but in Hobart and am also have taken on the role of Strength Coach for the Northern Bombers Football Club in the Statewide Football League.

Course

Graduated with Bachelor of Exercise Science in 2010.

Current position

In 2012, was starting her PhD through the Menzies Research Institute and Monash University.

Story

After finishing my three and a half year Exercise Science degree with the School of Human Life Sciences I chose to undertake an Honours year at the Menzies Research Institute in Hobart which I have now completed.

In May of this year (2011) I presented my Honours work at a Conference in paris called ARTERY11 – an international conference primarily with a focus on arterial function and structure. Whilst in Paris, I met with some French professors working in the same field and gained some extra knowledge by being able to sit in on some of their patients.

I will be returning to Australia in January to start a PhD which focuses on the relationship between increased central blood pressure and cognitive dysfunction in type 2 diabetics which will be undertaken through the Menzies Research Institute and Monash University. Whilst undertaking this study, I hope to spend a period of time back in the lab in Paris.

Course

Graduated with a PhD in 2012.

Current position

In 2012, was working at Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra as a Physiologist specialising in recovery.

Story

After completing my Honours degree in Sport and Exercise Science in New Zealand, I decided to undertake a PhD. I was lucky enough to successfully gain a joint scholarship funded by the school of Human Life Sciences and the Tasmanian Institute of Sport (TIS) to assist with my studies. The focus of my three year post graduate research was on enhancing performance through training strategies and nutritional supplementation in rowers and cyclists.

I gained valuable experience in applied sports science working with elite athletes at the TIS while at the same time was able to develop research skills learning about the world of academia at UTAS. It was great to have the balance between the two.

Since finishing my PhD I have gained a position at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra as a Physiologist specialising in recovery. My role consists of 50% athlete servicing and 50% research. I have been working at the AIS for almost three years and have had some great opportunities to travel overseas with different teams. One of the particular highlights has been working with the Australian Paralympic Team in August/September at the 2012 Paralympics in London.

I have retained ties with UTAS as a University Associate and am currently co-supervising a UTAS/AIS PhD student together with Dr James Fell and Dr Cecilia Shing who are my past Supervisors from the School of Human Life Sciences.

Course

Graduated with Bachelor of Health Science with Honours in 2008.

Current position

In 2012, was working at Bupa in Melbourne as a Health Coach Dietitian.

Story

I completed a Bachelor of Health Science in 2007 and as I was interested in nutrition, chose elective subjects based around nutrition and exercise throughout my second and third years.  Once completed, I decided to stay at Utas and complete a nutrition intervention Honours research project in order to expand my career options. This was a great opportunity that I would highly recommend to anyone interested in research. After completing my Honours in 2008 I wanted to pursue my interest in the nutrition area and enrolled in a Masters of Nutrition and Dietetics at the University of Wollongong.

The course took two years to complete and included 2 full semesters of subjects, one semester of research, one semester of placements (10 weeks clinical /hospital placement), 5 weeks community placement and 3 weeks food service placement).  For anyone considering studying at the University of Wollongong I would highly recommend it. The staff are very supportive, courses offered are highly regarded, and provide a high level of skill and knowledge allowing students to maximise their experience throughout their placement and impress potential employers.

Upon graduating with a Masters in Nutrition and Dietetics I gained a position based in Melbourne working at Bupa as a Health Coach Dietitian.  The position requires working in a team with 9 other dietitians on a program called The COACH Program (Coaching patients On Achieving Cardiovascular Health). The program is offered to Bupa members who have recently been discharged from hospital after a cardiac event or procedure, such as a heart attack, angina, stent(s) or coronary artery bypass graft. My role is to work with these members  to help them achieve modifiable coronary risk factor targets, such as cholesterol, blood pressure, body weight (waist circumference), smoking, alcohol and physical activity. These members often have other co-morbidities, such as type-2 diabetes, renal impairment and heart failure. I work with those enrolled in the program over a 4-6 months period with 4-6 weekly review sessions. This follow up is extremely rewarding as it allows time to work with members to support them through quite a confronting and potentially confusing period and work with them as they progress towards their health goals.

In addition to my primary role I also have the opportunity to work in other areas. Bupa runs a program to their employees from all around Australia where they have the opportunity to get dietetic services, which means I am providing dietetic advice to employees for a range of conditions. I also have the opportunity to provide dietetic services and cooking demonstrations at health lounges as requested by large companies through the corporate health section of Bupa.