Giving as much as she receives

Chantel has a deep respect for the older people she cares for. She especially enjoys the wealth of experiences and stories they have to share, making her job interesting and fulfilling.

"All these people, all these older people, they have all these experiences, all these stories to tell, and it's never boring. They always have something to tell and it's great because you can share experiences and they can give you this worldly wisdom," Chantel said.

Chantel credits her positive experience at TAFE Queensland to her teacher, Jude, who was a constant source of support and encouragement. She speaks highly of Jude's extensive experience in the industry and how she was always there to guide her when needed.

"She was incredible. She was so understanding and she had so much experience, and she just knew exactly what to say when you needed it said," Chantel said.

Chantel believes that hands-on training is essential in the aged care industry, and TAFE Queensland provided her with that. She appreciated the opportunity to learn in a simulated workspace using real equipment in a safe environment.

"I can't imagine not doing this course and jumping straight into this industry. You really need that information from someone who's been there and knows what you're going to be getting into. And it really helps to build your confidence knowing that no one's going to get hurt if you mess up," Chantel said.

As part of her studies Chantel needed to complete 120 hours of placement in industry. It proved to not only be a great learning experience, but also a seamless pathway into employment.

"I thought it was going to be impossible, but TAFE set me up with an amazing facility, really close to my home. And through my placement I've managed to get a full-time job," she said.

One of the benefits of working in aged care for Chantel is having the flexibility she needs in her life. As someone who works night shifts, she appreciates the ability to choose from different shift options depending on her circumstances.

"If you have kids, they can give you morning shift. If you have other obligations, they will work around you," she said.

Chantel loves that her aged care studies have opened up a rewarding career path for her. She says anyone who can empathise and care for others would be suited to the industry.

"The best attributes to be in this role would just be a caring individual who wants to put the time and effort into caring for those that need your help," she said.

Chantel's ultimate goal is to take care of those around her, ensuring that everyone stays happy and healthy.

"In the future I'm considering maybe going into nursing and I imagine I'll probably be coming back to TAFE Queensland for that as well," Chantel said.

But a career that required higher-level studies wasn't always in Chantel's future. Like many students, she struggled with the rigid traditional schooling system.

"When I was in the classroom, there was always just so much pressure. There was always a deadline. You always had to have everything done at a certain time," Chantel said.

"But with this course, there was always, 'we'll help you out more if you need more help, we're here to help you get to where you need to be.' And that really helped out where previous education really hasn't," she said.

Chantel loves the fact that people need her and appreciate the smallest things she does for them and says that people from all ages and backgrounds can succeed in this industry.

"You don't have to be the fittest. You don't have to be the smartest. You don't have to be the best at anything. You will be welcomed. They want you. They need you."

Chantel is a shining example of how anyone can enter the aged care industry and make a positive impact in the lives of those they care for. Chantel cannot recommend the Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing)(CHC33015) enough to anyone interested in entering the aged care industry.

"My experience with TAFE Queensland in this course has just been absolutely incredible. I would recommend it to everyone."