Bachelor of Nursing graduand Amy Knott is set to graduate at Southern Cross University's Coffs Harbour ceremony this week, marking the end of a four-year journey that led her to a role she loves.
Looking back, Amy can hardly believe how much she packed into her degree: two campuses, seven placements, a student ambassador role, international adventures, and now a place in a graduate nursing program. But she's the first to admit the path wasn't always clear.
"I was so clueless at the end of Year 12. I didn't know what I wanted to do. I didn't even go to orientation week because I only applied the week before term started," said Amy.
Originally enrolling in a Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science, Amy soon realised that while she loved the course material, she couldn't see herself in the long-term career path.
"I loved the content, but I looked ahead and thought, 'I don't know if I can do that as a job,'" she said.
So she made the switch to nursing.
Hands-on learning and six week terms
Amy began her studies close to home at the University's Coffs Harbour campus, where she found a close-knit cohort and supportive staff who made the learning environment feel personal.
"The teachers were so approachable. They'd tell us when they were on campus and to just come by if we needed anything," said Amy.
"That support makes such a difference in a degree like nursing, where the course content can be challenging. But the teaching staff really want you to succeed."
Amy began university under the old session-based structure before six-week terms were introduced. Once she adapted, she didn't look back. Only studying two units at a time made an enormous difference.
"I fell in love with the six-week terms. I was never good at juggling multiple subjects at once. With two units, my marks improved and it worked for the way I learn. I also remembered the content better, which gave me much more confidence going into placements," Amy said.
Memories that last a lifetime
Outside the classroom, Amy embraced opportunities to expand her experience, working as a student ambassador and travelling to New Zealand for an unforgettable student snow trip. In her studies, and in her student life, Amy has made the kind of connections that will last a lifetime.
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"I went on the SCU snow trip to Queenstown. I'd never snowboarded before and I was bruised everywhere, but it was the best time, and I met students from across all campuses and study areas," Amy said.
"Our nursing cohort in Coffs Harbour became really close. Now we're all working in different locations, but we still chat almost every day, checking in on how everyone is going."
Other than these relationships, Amy is most grateful for the extensive practical experience she got as part of her degree, in studying first at Coffs Harbour and then Gold Coast campuses.
"I did seven placements across my degree and I got such a variety across medical wards, community care, mental health, even primary health inside a correctional facility," Amy said.
"I was nervous moving to the Gold Coast, where I didn't know anyone, but I ended up meeting lots of friends, especially through my placements."
The moment where it all starts to make sense
But it was her oncology placement at the Gold Coast University Hospital that had the greatest impact.
"At first I was terrified. It was my first metro placement, the hospital was huge, and I worried it would be a sad environment. But oncology patients are incredible, their health literacy is so high, they're so lovely, and you get time to really talk to them," said Amy.
That connection is what made the specialty feel right.
"You become part of their journey. Once you gain their trust, it's such a warm, rewarding feeling."
When she completed that placement, she was offered a job at the Gold Coast University Hospital, a huge achievement for a nursing student, but she ultimately decided to return home to Coffs Harbour to begin her graduate year close to family.
Today, Amy is working in the outpatient cancer clinic at the Coffs Harbour Base Hospital as part of her year-long graduate nursing program.
"I love my IVs and the medication-side, which is the nerdy part of nursing, but I also love having a chat. Oncology provides this perfect mix," said Amy.
Her year in the graduate program will see her rotate across different wards, growing her skills before stepping into a permanent nursing role.
Now, as she prepares to formally graduate, Amy's advice to future students is simple.
"If you like hands-on learning, choose a degree with placements. That's where you learn the most. Nursing was the best decision I made, it's opening doors and I am excited for what's next."
