Caitlin Kempe’s path to paramedicine wasn’t straightforward, but she was always guided by a very simple principle: she wanted to help people.
That same instinct for human connection also helped Caitlin to find a supportive group of similarly passionate fellow students in her Bachelor of Paramedicine course. And that camaraderie has become the most treasured aspect of her studies.
Currently studying at the University of Tasmania’s Sydney campus, Caitlin has always aspired to a career in healthcare.
Throughout her childhood, she imagined a future as a paediatric or trauma surgeon, and later she considered physiotherapy and occupational therapy. She even completed a Bachelor of Exercise Science.
But it was a conversation with a friend studying paramedicine that stuck with her, and ultimately changed her direction, prompting her to pursue a career that would put her on the frontline of helping people when they need it most.
“As paramedics, we are going to the worst day of someone’s life,” she said.
“And if we have the capacity to help in any way, then I couldn’t imagine a greater purpose in life.”
And, after speaking with a University of Tasmania paramedicine graduate about their profession, Caitlin took the plunge and applied for the course.
What attracted her to the University was not only the opportunity to complete the degree in two years, but also the course’s strong focus on practical experience and integrated placements.
Studying primarily on campus, Caitlin values the hands-on learning opportunities that allow students to apply what they’ve learned in realistic scenarios.
Those practical classes have also led to some of her favourite university memories.
Among them is a CPR training session where one classmate’s technique earned them the nickname of “The Soul Finder”, after delivering chest compressions with perhaps a little too much enthusiasm.
And, when exams approach, Caitlin admits she’s a fan of “procrastibaking” rather than procrastinating, a habit her friends are more than happy to support when fresh baked treats appear during such stressful times.
For Caitlin, these experiences challenge the perception that university is simply about lectures and assignments. Instead, it has become a place where learning, friendships and future professional networks develop side by side.
“Being in a group with others allows me unique insight into different experiences and approaches to situations,” she said.
“The friendships forged in practicals, and in the struggle to master content, are the best part of university and the part that will last the longest when the degree is done.”
Looking ahead, Caitlin hopes to work her way towards becoming a critical care paramedic, with ambitions to one day work with the Royal Flying Doctor Service and serve as a medic in the Army Defence Force Reserves.
As she works towards those goals, she is embracing every aspect of university life, from hands-on learning opportunities to the friendships and professional connections she is building along the way.