Melika makes her mark at Mater Education

Melika Rayedpur knew in Year 9 that she wanted to be a nurse. Fast forward 10 years and she's living out this dream, graduating from the Diploma of Nursing in just under five months' time. 

The 19-year-old's brother was diagnosed with a brain tumour when she was younger, exposing her to the importance of the healthcare industry. 

The former Yeronga State High School student said she wants to give back to others who are also unwell. 

"I saw how much my brother respected the nurses and how much they respected him," she said. 

"Knowing that people rely on you makes a big difference and it did for us when my brother was in hospital."

Melika completed her Certificate II in Health Support and III in Allied Health through Mater Education while still in school, leading her to qualify as an Assistant In Nursing. 

"I was scared about transitioning from school to uni so I applied to stay with Mater Education and study the Diploma in Nursing and the support has been really good at Mater," she said. 

"You get hands-on experience at least once a week and it really helps in the real world because I knew what to do on my placement."

Melika wants to work in paediatrics once she graduates from her third and final semester in October. She will be the first nurse in her family.

"My family and I moved from Iran to Australia 10 years ago," she said. 

"The transition was a bit tricky with learning a new language. But every day I am grateful for being here, even though I miss home because that's where my family is.

"When I finish the Diploma, I'd like to work with kids and maybe even in emergency. Then I'm hoping to do my RNs (Registered Nursing).

"As long as I can get into the healthcare industry then I'll be happy!" 

Follow your nursing dreams like Melika. Apply for the Diploma of Nursing today to start studying in Brisbane in October 2022 and January 2023 in Townsville: https://mater.li/ApplyForDoN