‘Take every opportunity Stars offers you!’
That’s the message from 2018 Pimlico Stars graduate, Sarah Evans, who’s just been awarded the $10 000 Jamie Jackway Paramedic Scholarship for the remainder of her double degree in Nursing/Paramedics at Queensland University of Technology in Brisbane.
The scholarship not only provides financial support to Indigenous students like Sarah to complete their Paramedic Science degree, it also guarantees her a job with the Queensland Ambulance Service on successful completion of her studies.
Recently, when Sarah was in Townsville to complete a work placement, our Queensland Transitions Manager Emma Ferguson caught up with her for a chat.
Why did you choose to study this course?
I really wanted to be a paramedic because I always admired what they did. I didn’t think I would be able to do it, so I tried a few other things first. But I didn’t like them, so I decided to apply for the course – and I got in! I love the adrenaline rush of the job and the fact it goes from zero to a hundred so quickly!
What does a typical day look like for you?
I work 12-hour shifts, usually two days and two nights. Every day is different, which is one of the reasons I love it so much. Every day we help people from all different walks of life, and we are the first people on scene.
Any advice for current Stars students?
Take every opportunity that Stars offers you, because that’s the only way to find out what you really want to do. Apply for scholarships! And jump straight into it – don’t be afraid!