I undertook and completed the Graduate Certificate in Adolescent Health and Welfare (Oncology) in 2011. At the time I was working as an Occupational Therapist at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre. Studying the course has meant that I am now working in my dream role with ONTrac at Peter Mac Victorian Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Service.

My position is extremely varied and involves a combination of clinical and project work which I find extremely rewarding.  Within my clinical role, I work closely with the Education and Vocation Consultant to provide support and assistance to young people referred to the service.  The project work aspect involves the development, implementation and evaluation of a pilot vocational training program which addresses the specific and unique issues that young people with cancer often experience.  I also have the opportunity to work within a multidisciplinary team that comprises a range of healthcare professionals all focused on the care of young people living with cancer. 

 The course has motivated and encouraged me to improve the clinical care I provide to young people through applying the knowledge and skills I have learnt and will continue to expand upon.

I would strongly encourage anyone who is either currently working with or wishes to work with young people with cancer to enrol. It will enhance your knowledge regarding the unique and specific medical and psychosocial issues experienced by this population, provide you with a range of theoretical frameworks to guide your practice and supply you with an array of skills to meet the needs of this often challenging yet rewarding group.  It is definitely manageable to work full-time and complete the course, the year flies by and at the end you may end up with your dream job!