Benefits of work integrated learning

Mia Ararat

Bachelor of Psychology (Hons) student

Mia had always been interested in becoming a sports psychologist at an AFL club, but unfortunately she wasn’t able to obtain a placement with any. But as Mia explains, it turned out to be a blessing in disguise, as she successfully obtained a four month placement at Squash Australia.

“I’m just so grateful to get insight into what working in sport could be like,” she said during a short break at the recent Australian Junior Open in Melbourne, realising that working for a smaller sport than the AFL has provided far different insights to what she expected. “It’s meant that I’ve been able to have more of an impact in the work that I’m doing,” said Mia.

“Some of my colleagues are at psychology clinics being their receptionist, whereas I’m getting real life, first-hand experience. I’m working on grant programs, I’m attending tournaments, I’ve spoken to every National Lead in Squash which is incredible for making connections. It’s really opened the door for me in so many other ways than being a receptionist or doing admin work.

"What I’ve been learning through all these grant applications is that one grant can make such a difference for a sport and I think it’s just a more meaningful connection to the community when it’s a smaller sport. This has been an incredible experience and one that I know I have been very lucky to be a part of. I thought people would be jumping at this opportunity and people should. I’m a psychology student - I’m not majoring in sport - but it’s opened my eyes to all the other opportunities there are in sport."

“I don’t just have to be a sports psychologist now. Speaking to Jodie [Purves, Squash Australia National Integrity Manager] made it really interesting to learn about the integrity side, watching Tamika [Hunt, National Lead - Competitions and Events] and what she does during a tournament - she does such an amazing job - it’s just opened my eyes to how incredible it can be working in a sport.”

Marjorie Devereux

Bachelor of Public Health and Health Promotion student

"I loved my placement with Life Saving Victoria (LSV). I implemented many of the different skills I have learnt so far at Deakin and I felt like I really put them to good use.

It's really rewarding to work on a real-world project and have the ability to provide meaningful input and actually have an impact!

I was given a lot of freedom and contributed to a few important projects and reports that will be distributed across the state, and as a result of my placement.

The most enjoyable part of being at LSV was the office culture; we were encouraged to take part in lunch time games such as netball or beach frisbee as a part of Active April, and also prepared for the Emergency Services Games. It has really made me realise that this is what I want to do when I graduate!

I've now been asked back to LSV to continue my work."

Clare Bjorksten

Bachelor of Public Health and Health Promotion graduate

"As a part of my course, I completed 120 hours of practicum at Latrobe Community Health Service in the National Disability Insurance Scheme team. I loved my placement as I got to experience what it is like to work in the field and have one-on-one mentoring from professionals.

My favourite part of my placement was being able to sit in on appointments with local area coordinators and participants of the NDIS and see what a difference the scheme has made in their lives.

I have since gained employment from my practicum.

I am now working full time as a local area coordinator at Latrobe Community Health Service. I love my job as I am seeing what a difference the NDIS can make to participants. People who have never had access to funding in their life are now able to receive the help and support they require."