Aspiring paramedic reflects on pivotal moment at Open Day
Aspiring paramedic Ainsley Mann from the Blue Mountains attended Western Sydney University’s Open Day as a senior in high school in 2019. The soon to be 17-year-old found it to be an eye-opening and invaluable experience and is encouraging others to take up the opportunity.
“I walked into Open Day completely uncertain of what degree I wanted to study, originally tossing up between law, criminology and medicine. When I left Open Day, I was fully confident I wanted to pursue health care and paramedicine was now on my mind,” said Ainsley.
“Five years later and I am almost finished with my degree, feeling completely confident that it was the perfect fit for me. Finding a university that had an engaging community environment was very important to me as a prospective student and Open Day consolidated this for me.”
Ainsley chose to study paramedicine as she wanted to work as a healthcare professional in a dynamic out-of-hospital environment, providing a sense of calming reassurance during what can be an extremely stressful and vulnerable time in people’s lives.
She found studying for a university degree at Western provided her with an immense amount of professional and personal experience to prepare for a career as a paramedic, along with professional accreditation.
“Coming into university straight after my HSC was honestly quite nerve-wracking as I wasn’t sure if I was prepared for the challenges and responsibilities of being a university student and a paramedic. However, the network of colleagues, friends, and interprofessional relationships I have gained throughout my degree is extremely beneficial in developing a support system both during and after my studies.”
“I’m a practical, hands-on learner, and studying paramedicine was the perfect combination of theoretical and practical based learning, with simulations in immersive interactive spaces and technology, and practical placements across the state of NSW and the world. I just recently returned from a 6-week paramedic placement in London with London Ambulance Service, and this was a life-changing experience.”
In addition to her studies, Ainsley is part of a dedicated team at the University’s Student Services Hub that provides support to prospective and current students. She will be one of the friendly faces students will see at Open Day, on hand to answer questions and share her personal experience.
“The Student Services Hub is extremely passionate about helping students because we once were or are still currently students of the University. I can resonate with a lot of the common stressors students experience when starting their university journey and there are so many levels of support and tools that we can offer you. University doesn’t have to be a stressful experience, and I want to provide students with the means to have the most enjoyable experience possible.”
“We help connect students with a range of services and facilities to support them in all aspects of their university experience. Whether you need assistance with your studies through Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS), Mathematics Education Support Hub (MESH), mature age student support or academic literacy workshops, there is something for everyone's needs.”
Ainsley’s advice whether you’re a current high school student or a non-current school leaver, know what degree or career you’re interested in, or are still exploring your options, is to take the first step and come along to Open Day.
“Get involved in our upcoming Open Day and network with university academics and fellow students to start developing a support system. I completely understand choosing to study at university is a huge decision, however, you don’t have to do it alone.”
“It’s an awesome opportunity to explore one of our beautiful campuses, chat first-hand with our academics and students, experience the community vibe of Western, and take the first step in finding the right degree and career path for you.”
She encourages prospective students to not be afraid to reach out to the team and other support services at Western throughout any part of their decision-making journey.
“Whether you would like to know what courses we have available based on your interests, check up on your application, or enrol into your new offer right through until you graduate, we have so much advice and support to offer you!”
ENDS
22 June 2023
Ali Sardyga, Senior Media Officer.
Photo credit: Sally Tsoutas
Tips to get the most out of Open Day
Western Sydney University paramedicine student and Student Services Hub team member, Ainsley Mann, shares her top five tips on how to get the most out of attending Open Day at Western Sydney University. From getting your important questions answered about the course you’re interested in, to enjoying a taste of uni life, there’s so much to do and see.
1. Get your questions answered
For prospective students, Open Day is a great opportunity to have all your important questions answered and put your mind at ease. You’ll get to hear from current student panels, attend presentations, tour facilities, and speak with academics and staff who can answer your questions about our range of courses. All of your questions are important to us!
2. Meet the Student Services Hub team
Don’t forget to visit and say hi to our friendly Student Services Hub team made up of current university students. The team is ready to answer any questions you might have and can connect you with services and support at the University.
3. Learn about scholarship opportunities
Make sure you drop by the scholarships stall to learn more about the countless scholarship opportunities on offer and how to apply. Each year, Western offers $20 million in scholarships and our team is ready to help you find the right scholarship for you.
4. Take in the sights and sounds
Take time to enjoy all the sights and sounds of Open Day, including food trucks, live music, prizes and giveaways, interactive displays and chill-out spaces. There will be winter themed activities this year too, including an ice-skating rink, so be sure to check it out!
5. We are here to help and support you!
At Western, we have a range of services and facilities to support students in all aspects of their university experience. Whether you want to find out about avenues for academic support or learn about our health and wellbeing and disability services, there is something for everyone's needs. University doesn’t need to be intimidating, so we are here to help support you however we can.