Written by Malina Bottom
Choosing a university degree is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make after finishing school, and it can feel overwhelming. I wasn’t completely certain about my future at first, but I knew I wanted to pursue a career where I could make a positive difference in people’s lives. Looking back now, I know I made the right choice.
Growing up in a rural community showed me how important healthcare professionals are. Living in a smaller town means that access to healthcare isn’t always as easy as it is in larger cities, so I know that nurses play an essential role in supporting people through some of the most challenging moments of their lives. I’ve always enjoyed helping others and wanted a career that was meaningful, practical, and different every day. Nursing stood out because it combines science, communication, and compassion while giving you the opportunity to make a real difference.
The moment that confirmed nursing was the right path for me was when I was working in aged care in my hometown, Cobar. During my time caring for residents, I saw how much of an impact that kindness, patience, and quality care can have on someone’s wellbeing. Every day was an opportunity to learn something new, whether it was communicating with residents and their families, working as part of a healthcare team or developing practical care skills.
Completing my Certificate III and gaining hands-on experience gave me the confidence that this was more than just an interest. It was the career I wanted to pursue. When it came to choosing where to study, Charles Sturt felt like the right fit. As someone from a regional area, I appreciate Charles Sturt’s strong focus on supporting regional communities.
My first experience with Charles Sturt was when they came to my school for a careers expo in Year 10. I spoke to some lovely student ambassadors about the university and what to expect when applying over the next two years. During 2025, my careers advisor told me to apply for the Early Advantage Offer that Charles Sturt had open. I was hesitant at first, but when I read more about it, I realised it would be the best choice and would reduce the stress of applying while also studying for the HSC. A week before offers came out, I came to Charles Sturt’s Bathurst campus and went on the campus tour, which made me fall more in love with the idea of attending this university. The multiple tours they offered for different degrees and accommodation, as well as the information about social life on campus, were amazing.
Although I’m still early in my nursing journey, every subject has reinforced that I made the right choice. I’ve started building the knowledge and skills needed to care for patients while also learning how important communication, teamwork, and critical thinking are in healthcare. It’s exciting to see how everything we learn connects to the role of a registered nurse, and each semester brings me one step closer to my future career.
If you are unsure about which degree is right for you, don’t worry!! Many students feel the same way. Try gaining work experience, volunteering or speaking with people already working in careers that interest you. Those experiences can teach you far more than reading about the profession online. Most importantly, choose something that genuinely interests you and matches your values, because that’s what will keep you motivated throughout your studies.
Looking back, I realised there wasn’t one single moment when I knew nursing was the right choice. Instead, it was a series of experiences that gradually confirmed I was on the right path.
Working in aged care, learning from experienced healthcare professionals, and beginning my studies at Charles Sturt University have all strengthened my passion for nursing. I’m excited to continue learning, growing, and working towards a career where I can make a positive difference in the lives of others.
Charlie blog is a SSAF initiative.
