Through her work as a paediatric nurse, WSU Online student Rachael found herself drawn to helping children admitted at risk of neglect or abuse. Rachael’s interest in these cases led her to study a Bachelor of Social Science (Child and Community), balancing the course with full-time work and time with her family.
Read on to discover how Rachael is changing the direction of her career, her favourite study tips and her role as a Student Supporter.
Positive career shift
During her time as a paediatric nurse, Rachael worked closely with the NSW Health Joint Investigation Response Teams (JIRT) and Child Services on cases involving at-risk children. JIRT investigate cases involving vulnerable children that require a criminal justice response. Realising she wanted to do more in this field, Rachael decided to return to study. A Child and Community major covers study areas including social action, cultural differences, human services and community development.
Work/study balance
Rachael chose to complete her degree with WSU Online in order to fit study around full-time work and time with her family. Studying online allows you to complete your degree when and where it suits you, at your own pace. “I make sure over weekends and nights I set aside time to study,” Rachael says. “I also listen to my textbooks on audio while driving to work.” Her two favourite study tips? Develop effective time management skills and study in a dedicate space. “My daughter loves to join me and do her own homework in there.”
Rachael’s experience with studying online also highlights the importance of passion for your area of study and its contribution to your success. “I love what I’m studying and find it so interesting. I think this is the biggest part of successfully managing studying on top of a busy life.”
Supporting fellow students
Rachael embarked on the role as a Student Supporter with WSU Online as a way of passing on useful tips and tricks to new students studying online for the first time. “Sharing these tips and helping to motivate other students will be a great experience.”
A Student Supporter is a fellow student available to chat about their experiences studying online and someone you can go to if you have questions. You can do this in WesternLife, your online student-only social platform on the home page of your Student Hub. Students like Rachael will be in each unit and specific community boards to help you through your study journey.
Rachael is completing a Bachelor of Social Science (Child and Community). Read more about how you can make a difference in the community through this course with Western Sydney University Online.
Are you currently studying with WSU Online or interested in becoming a Student Supporter? Check out WesternLife, your student-only social platform, on the home page of your Student Hub.