It’s a long way from the deck of a naval ship to the hospital hallways but that’s the sea change Kate Wood was looking for when she left the Navy.
Kate is one of 100 new graduate nurses to begin in the Western Sydney Local Health District.
They join another 19 new midwives who began their positions in February.
“Growing up, I had a strong sense of service, with the desire to protect and assist others,” Kate said.
Kate spent 14 years serving in the Royal Australian Navy before pivoting her career to healthcare.
“Once I had left the Royal Australian Navy, nursing was a way that I could use this passion to help those who truly need it,” Kate said.
For her, the transition from serving our country to serving the community was borne of the same passion.
“I have always had a desire to be able to do more for others and to positively impact people through my actions,” Kate said.
Kate says watching a family member being cared for when she was younger made a distinct impression on her.
“I observed the manner in which he was cared for, which demonstrated to me the positive impact the nursing profession has on patient care and recovery,” Kate said.
Building on her skills working for the navy, Kate believes her time serving in the armed forces will enhance her skills as a nurse.
“I look forward to consolidating the fundamental skills learnt throughout my studies, whilst building confidence in my ability to work independently as a nurse and gaining the trust of my allocated unit in my capability,” Kate said.
Kate will begin her work at Westmead Hospital and is hoping to specialise in Medical Oncology.
“During my studies, I found that I particularly enjoyed understanding the specifics in cancer development and its progression, as well as how we use modern medicine to combat these cells on a molecular level.”