Hello, my name is Victoria Jacques. I am 45-year-old Bachelor of Nursing Science graduate. I started my degree in 2019 as a 42-year-old mature age student. It was such an exciting time being accepted into University! I had recently completed my Certificate IV in Ageing Support prior to applying to university and was fortunate to gain employment through the aged care facility where I completed my placement which gave me my first insight into caring for people. Prior to working as a personal support assistant, I worked in retail. On obtaining my degree I was offered an amazing opportunity in what I considered my dream job with the Metro North Hospital & Health Service. I am currently an Intensive Care Nurse in a new graduate program in the Intensive Care Unit at the Caboolture Hospital and I absolutely love it.

What was the best part of your degree and time at the Caboolture campus? 

The best parts of the course and campus was the opportunity to meet so many amazing people, lecturers and utilising the resources available as a student. I was lucky enough to start a study group with some amazing people. Each one of us brought a different skill and personality to this group, which definitely helped with the whole university process and life.

What events or associations were you involved in at the campus?

In my first year, I joined the Nursing Students Association (NSA) as a student member. The study group I formed attended a few seminars that the NSA organised at the UniSC Sunshine Coast campus. One of the seminars had a lot of key speakers from a variety of nursing job roles, past students and lecturers talking about the opportunities that were on offer in the nursing world. Another was a sign language seminar. I also became a committee member in the events team at the end of 2019 prior to COVID.

What advice would you give to new students or people who may be interested in studying?

I found my niche in nursing I have a great passion for this profession. So I would say be brave and embrace your potential. This University offers unlimited resources to help you through the degree. Form a study group, find your people, support your peers and help each other when you can. Do not let fear stop you from achieving your dreams. Nurses rock!