Kathryn takes the plunge into new career

As more workers move to reinvent their careers in response to the current economic climate, Kathryn Etheredge is taking the plunge into a new career for more compassionate reasons.

The former property conveyancer for Queensland Government agency Main Roads is among the first cohort of students undertaking the newly introduced Bachelor of Occupational Therapy, at Southern Cross University Lakeside in Caloola Drive, Tweed Heads.

Kathryn, who is commuting from Brisbane until she moves to Robina on the Gold Coast in the coming months, said despite many years in the corporate world she felt compelled to move into a profession where she could help others.

“I was in a stable government job but I couldn’t see myself going any further with it,” said Kathryn.

“I am interested in fitness and took on part-time work as a personal trainer, studied massage and learned other forms of therapy that help with wellbeing, which led me to occupational therapy.

“I eventually got to the point where I had to follow my passion, and occupational therapy appealed to me because of the variety of settings you can work in.

“The decision to study took a number of years and now I have taken the plunge I know I did the right thing – I’m loving the course.”

Occupational therapists assess and treat people who, because of illness or injury, are limited in their ability to undertake the activities of everyday life. The Bachelor of Occupational Therapy develops students’ understanding of the theoretical and practical components of occupational therapy, and includes professional placements in a wide range of areas, including rehabilitation settings within hospitals and community venues.

Kathryn is not the only student on the course stepping out of her comfort zone – Lorna Tongatia has followed her three daughters to Australia from Papua New Guinea where she worked for the Prime Minister as research/executive officer and later on a privately owned tourist magazine.

“I hope to work in remote and rural areas where I think help is really needed,” said Lorna.

“I feel an affinity with the Indigenous community and would like to work with them to improve their health outcomes. I’m very community orientated and I’m looking forward to being able to help people in my everyday working life.”

For more information on the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy call 1800 626 481 or go to scu.edu.au/courses

Photo: Occupational therapy students Lorna Tongatia (left) and Kathryn Etheredge (seated) get some tips on equipment from lecturer Yvonne Pennisi.