Written by Keely Prasalowski
When people hear I’m studying Paramedicine, they often ask, “Why not Nursing?” The truth is, I wanted a career that breaks the mould, one that’s unpredictable and full of purpose.
The idea of working a 9-to-5 job indoors just never felt like me. I wanted a job where every day is different, where I could be indoors and outdoors, meeting people in their most vulnerable moments and making a real difference, often before they even step foot in a hospital.
Right now, I’m on my final ever placement(!) and every shift brings something new. Just recently, I had one of those unforgettable moments where I backed up another crew that helped deliver a healthy baby girl in the front seat of a car on the side of the road. It was chaotic, emotional, and absolutely beautiful but it reminded me exactly why I chose this path.
Like Nursing, Paramedicine offers incredible opportunities to travel and work across Australia and even internationally. It feels like so many doors can be opened.
Another element that drew me in is the autonomy. While nurses often work under a doctor’s direction, paramedics are independent clinicians. Out in the field, we assess, diagnose, and make critical decisions on our own. It’s challenging, empowering, and endlessly rewarding.
Studying Paramedicine means signing up for adventure, long days with coffee, long nights with coffee, flashing lights, getting sweet treats between jobs and moments that test you and change you all at once.
But it also means being part of something extraordinary, helping people on their worst days, often in the most unexpected places. For me, that’s the kind of career worth chasing.
P.S Congratulations to the Class of 2025! Can’t wait to see us all out there on road!
Charlie blog is a SSAF funded initiative.
