Krystle’s nursing dream within reach

Graduating from Mater Education with a Certificate III in Health Services Assistance (HSA) was just the first step on Krystle Magdalinski’s healthcare journey. The passionate graduate has continued her studies with the Diploma of Nursing program, right here at Mater. 

“My experience with Mater Education has been motivating, supportive and really fun,” she said. 

“Overall, it’s been really good and that’s why I’ve decided to go through Mater Education for my Diploma despite a bit of travel for me.”

Krystle’s efforts to juggle motherhood and work, while making time for her studies have proved to be a challenge throughout her three-month course. 

“My time management skills have definitely improved,” she said. 

“The ongoing support from the educators have made it all possible.” 

As part of the Certificate III in Health Services Assistance, the cohort, including Krystle, undertook a practical placement at Mercy Community Aged Care, organised by the Mater Education Placement Team.

Mater Education Student Placement Coordinator Shaun Lacey said “the feedback from Mercy has been fantastic. It’s a testament to the hard work they’ve put in”.

Each student was presented with a job application upon completing their placement and encouraged to apply by Mercy staff. 

“The opportunity was overwhelming,” Krystle said, “I felt like all my hard work paid off and was recognised”. 

Krystle now works at Mercy Community Aged Care and started a Diploma of Nursing with Mater Education in July 2023 under Mater Education’s fee-free initiative in partnership with the Queensland Government. 

“I was in complete shock when I found out,” Krystle said. 

“Fee-free training will definitely lift the financial pressure on me and allow me to fully focus on my studies.”

“Ultimately, I’d like to be a midwife and start my Bachelor of Midwifery after finishing my diploma.” 

Upon completion of her diploma, Krystle hopes to continue her studies at the Australian Catholic University (ACU) through Mater Education’s direct entry agreement with the institution, with the goal of becoming a midwife. 

The agreement allows 10 Mater Education Diploma of Nursing graduates to be accepted by direct entry into the ACU Bachelor of Nursing each year.

Join Krystle and apply for the Diploma of Nursing today and start studying fee-free for 2024 in Brisbane, Springfield or Townsville in 2024: mater.li/ApplyForDoN