The path to becoming a nurse

Meet Tamika McLennan, a compassionate soul and devoted mother of two, whose path to becoming a nurse was an undeniable destiny. Having spent years tending to her children and elderly parents, her innate nurturing nature led her on a journey towards acquiring extensive caregiving skills. Driven by a desire to provide even greater care and support for her loved ones, Tamika embarked on a journey to complete the Diploma of Nursing (HLT54121) at TAFE Queensland, where she knew she would be given excellent training to become a nurse.

Tamika explained at TAFE Queensland she found the perfect environment to learn and grow.

“The modern facilities, including a 64-bed hospital, provided practical hands-on experience that prepared her for real-world challenges in the nursing profession,” Mrs McLennan said.

“The labs were especially beneficial, as they allowed me to practice essential clinical skills under expert guidance,” she said.

One of the great advantages of the diploma program at TAFE Queensland was its flexibility. Tamika mentioned she could choose between attending classes in person or studying online, and she could adjust her schedule to fit her family and work commitments.

Throughout the program, Tamika underwent two placements to gain practical knowledge. My first placement was at an aged care facility, where I learnt the fundamentals of nursing, such as personal care and patient interactions.

“It was a valuable experience that reinforced my passion for nursing and it was a fantastic experience.”

Whilst on her second placement at Pindara Private Hospital the next significant opportunity was presented to her. Here, she got firsthand exposure to different hospital wards and honed her skills in a real hospital setting. The hard work and dedication she demonstrated during this placement caught the attention of the hospital's education team, leading to an offer to interview for the hospital's graduate nursing program. Tamika was thrilled when she secured a position as a graduate nurse at Pindara Private Hospital.

“The diploma of nursing not only equipped me with the necessary knowledge and expertise but also boosted my confidence to excel during my placements.”

“Learning from all the amazing teachers at TAFE Queensland has given me the knowledge and confidence to become the best nurse I can be.”

Today, Tamika is proud to recommend the diploma of nursing to others. She finds great fulfillment in her nursing career and knows that the healthcare industry is always in need of compassionate and skilled nurses.