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WIC Graduate Student Melissa ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½lay

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Melissa ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½lay, a proud Jerrinja woman and now a Bachelor of Nursing graduate shares her experience completing a degree at the University of ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½, and her ambitions of future studies.

Having grown up predominantly around ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½, Melissa has always had a strong passion for the pregnancy journey, and the impact of the Australian healthcare system on First Nations people.

“I’ve always been obsessed with all things babies, pregnancy and how our Mob is affected within the Australian health system. So, when I looked into becoming a Midwife, I realised becoming a Registered Nurse would broaden my abilities to help our Mob.”

As a mature aged student, Melissa experienced the many challenges of online study during Covid, highlighting the network of support offered by Woolyungah staff and students during such an isolating time.

Whilst completing her degree, Melissa was given the opportunity to take part in the NSW Health Indigenous Cadetship and was also able to participate in the ITAP tutoring program offered at WIC.

Since completing the first stage of her studies, Melissa strongly recommends current and future students to “take the opportunities to build a support network, vent, commiserate and create a buddy system if you are a procrastinator. Also take advantage of all the services that are provided at Woolyungah.”

Melissa has since moved to the United Kingdom for work and intends on completing her Bachelor of Midwifery, with the hopes of working with Indigenous Communities located in rural areas.

Congratulations Melissa on graduating, and good luck in your future studies!