High school to healthcare hero
A desire to make a positive impact in the world helped recent CQUniversity graduate Olivia Eriksen pursue her nursing career with passion and purpose.
When Olivia completed high school in 2020 amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, she said the critical need for healthcare professionals was more apparent than ever before.
“As COVID was still making its way into our everyday lives, I knew the demand wasn’t going to go away, and I always had a passion for caring for others,” Olivia explained.
"I am very much a team player, and I find that I am extremely passionate about caring for those in extremely vulnerable situations. “
While she was initially interested in a dual degree in nursing and paramedicine, Olivia said she found her calling for nursing at CQUniversity.
“CQU was the best university option for me as they were able to offer my degree externally. I was able to stay in my hometown and study whilst also working through COVID.
“Studying is like a roller coaster; it always had its ups and downs and for short stints, it would plateau.
“Sometimes I found it difficult to manage working full-time to get an income whilst also studying full-time, financial hardship during periods of inflation in the world, and finding enough time to enjoy a social life that was outside of studying.
“But I always strive to be the best nurse I can be and am always looking for extra opportunities to expand my skill set and knowledge.”
As a first-in-family university student, Olivia shared that her graduation in 2023 was a culmination of hard work and determination, alongside the unwavering support of her family.
Now, as a Registered Nurse in the perioperative department at St. Vincent’s Private Hospital in Toowoomba, Olivia is eager to continue learning and growing in her career.
“During the 12-month program, I rotate throughout all different areas of the department to have a taste of what each nursing role entails in each area.
"I have realised just how impactful you can be in such a short period of time with the patient," she said.
“My future plans are to pursue postgraduate studies and eventually become a Clinical Nurse.
“I would love to be able to teach aspiring nursing students in the future and pass on my knowledge to them."
