For 29 year old Waterloo resident, Emma Fitzpatrick, caring for the aged is a passion that has been part of her life for the past 8 years.
“It's a privilege being able to care for and provide assistance to people from different walks of life who have been on this earth much longer than me,” Emma explains.
“There is so much to learn from older people. Their life stories, background and experiences can be truly inspiring and it's an honour to help them to have a good day. It is truly rewarding be able to serve others who can be frail, sick or vulnerable.”
Emma worked as a care supervisor at Anglicare’s Newmarch House before applying for the orgnaisation’s graduate program and university. The job opened her eyes to the varied roles in aged care and helped realise her passion to look after the elderly.
Since 2015, Emma was part of Anglicare’s Aged Care Funding Instrument (ACFI) Team and this month, she will start Anglicare’s New Graduate Registered Nurses (RN) Program.
“I am trying to learn as much as I can and pave my way for a successful career in aged care. For me enrolling in the Graduate RN program has been about growth! University gives you a whole bunch of information but it’s the hands on experience that really assists with learning.
“I am looking forward to having the support of more experienced clinical staff as I begin this new role. It is exciting but also quite nerve wracking when I think about working as a registered nurse. It is another step forward in my career and I can’t wait to learn as much as I can.”
Emma would love to eventually do more study in geriatrics, especially dementia care. For her, working in aged care is more than another job, but a privilege.
“I have met some incredible residents and being able to help them to have a good day is such a joy.
There was no question in my mind about wanting to have a career in aged care - my heart is here and has been for almost 8 years now! I am excited for the future, my own growth and the potential to be a leader for something I am so passionate about.”
Seven registered nurses enrolled in Anglicare New Graduate RN Program will be starting their careers with the organisation on the 12 February 2018.
New graduates rotate through various locations within Anglicare, where they are exposed to a wide variety of learning opportunities in caring for residents and clients with low and high needs, chronic and complex care, dementia and palliative nursing care.
For more information about Anglicare’s Graduate Nursing program, call 1300 111 278 or email clinical.education@anglicare.org.au
Media contact: publicaffairs@anglicare.org.au