When you think of the qualifications of a social worker, you don’t often think of accounting skills—yet that’s exactly where Roxanne Chen started, before she swapped spreadsheets for humans.
“I moved to Melbourne in 2016 and studied accounting but I just couldn’t see myself doing that for the rest of my life. It’s not my thing. I need something with more human interaction.
“I did a placement in my undergrad degree where we went out spoke to people experiencing homelessness and it made me aware of social issues and different disadvantages, and I felt that would be a meaningful field of work.
Roxanne completed her degree in accounting and started a Masters in social work, where her first placement took her to NICU at Monash Children’s Hospital.
“That placement was really where I became interested in paediatric social work. I was really passionate about working with patients and families.
“Seeing families together and thriving is something that I find very beautiful and I would love to help families to get to where they want to be.”
It’s clear that Roxanne has found her path after joining the RCH in May 2021. Working with families to assess needs, provide advocacy, establish connections and resources in the community and ensure they have the support they need is a fulfilling role for Roxanne.
“It’s such a privilege and I’m thankful to be part of their journey and walk alongside them at a critical time for their children. It’s a beautiful thing and a privilege that we get to build that connection and that they share their children’s and their families’ stories with me.
“My team as well are amazing and supportive. I was quite scared when I started as this was my first job but they were so kind and patient. Everyone, not just my social work colleagues but the doctors, nurses and allied health team are so dedicated and it’s wonderful to work with such strong advocates for children and families.”
Working with a child-focused and family-centred approach is a big motivator for Roxanne, who speaks with passion about holistic family care and how the best interests of the child is always at the heart of their work.
“The most rewarding part of my job is definitely the connection I’m able to build with my patients and their families. I really appreciate that they take the time to speak with us and have trust in us and share their vulnerable moments.
“I think people might think that our job is depressing because we always see sick children. While it can be sad sometimes, at the same time we see a lot of strength in children and families. You get to see the humanity and resilience, and that’s really inspiring.
For anyone considering a career at the RCH, Roxanne’s advice is short and sweet—“Just do it. Don’t think twice!”
“When I see a smile on a kid’s face my heart just feels full. It’s one of the reasons why I love working here.”
Come and join our team at The Royal Children’s Hospital!
If you have ever thought about joining the RCH and working with people just like Roxanne, now is the time.
We’re ready for you: www.rch.org.au/careers