Teenager Tahlia follows her nursing dream
She’s only 17 years old, but Tahlia Chapman is about to embark on her dream job as a nurse.
Ms Chapman began studying her career in healthcare during high school and is about to graduate from Mater Education’s Diploma of Nursing course this July.
“I've always been drawn to helping people and wanted a career that was meaningful and rewarding,” she said.
“Nursing gives me the opportunity to support people during some of the most important moments of their lives.”
The Gap resident will receive her Diploma alongside more than 130 students graduating in Brisbane this week.
Ms Chapman gained a Certificate II in Health Support Services through Mater Education’s Vocational Education and Training (VET) Schools Program.
"Being with Mater Education from the very start of my Certificate II meant that I really wanted to continue my studies with them to become a nurse," she said.
“I am definitely proud of what I’ve been able to achieve at Mater.”
Looking back on the challenges she overcame along the way, Tahlia said graduating made all the hard work worthwhile.
“Completing the Diploma of Nursing wasn't always easy, but every assignment, assessment and placement has led to this moment," she said.
“It constantly reminds me that hard work and determination really pays off.”
Ms Chapman and her fellow graduates have completed their 18-month Diploma of Nursing course with funding assistance thanks to the Queensland Government’s Free Nursing initiative, graduating debt free.
More than 650 enrolled nurses have graduated from Mater Education since it became an approved provider of the initiative in 2023, while 654 students are currently studying.
“I am incredibly grateful to start my nursing career debt-free,” she said.
Currently working as a Health Records Scan Officer at Mater, Ms Chapman plans to apply for Mater’s February 2027 Enrolled Nursing Graduate Program intake.
“I’d also love to continue my learning and study to become a registered nurse,” she said.
“I'm looking forward to gaining more experience, caring for my patients and making a positive impact.”
