My name is Jayde Couzens, I am a proud Noongar and Gunditjmara woman. I live with my 6-year-old son, Allakai and my partner who is a stay-at-home father, who is now trying to seek employment. I am living on Yorta-Yorta country in Katunga, while working at Goulburn Valley Health and studying at Latrobe Shepparton.

I am already actively contributing into the healthcare community from being a Health Assistant in Nursing, to an Enrolled Nurse. I want to grow my knowledge and skills so I can further my education so I can be a Nurse Practitioner. Currently studying my Bachelor of Nursing as this is the pathway into this role, I will continue to a master’s degree in emergency and Critical care. Once I have enough experience to become eligible, a master’s of advance nursing practice is next.

Growing up through generational trauma has taught me tuff lessons…

Doing what I thought was best for my unborn child I chose to move out of home and live with my partner’s parents. I want to work towards breaking generational trauma, and not want to fall victim to it. I am proud that I can educate and pave the way for younger mob into healthcare. Both working in healthcare and being Aboriginal, the westernised system comes with many challenges, I want to contribute to closing the gap in the healthcare system, one of the ways is getting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People into healthcare.

The scope of practice a Nurse Practitioner holds, I would be able to complete my vision. It is to build an indigenous women’s health centre, which would include immunizations, health check-up, cervix screening, scripts, and other links to services within community. This would also bring more career opportunities for other upcoming Indigenous healthcare workers to take part.

Since my last reflection I had commenced my summer subjects including NRS303D Applied Evidence Based Care in Nursing, NRS302D Professional Practice Nursing Six, NSG2005 Primary Healthcare in Nursing.

Over the past six months, my journey as a student nurse has continued to shape me in ways I could not have fully anticipated. As I move closer to completing my Bachelor of Nursing, I find myself reflecting not only on what I have achieved, but also on how much I have grown, both personally and professionally.

One of the most significant parts of this period has been my continued placement experiences. Having now completed 5 placements a total of 800 hours. Each one has offered something different. They have challenged me, stretched my confidence, and deepened my understanding of what it truly means to care for others. Placement is where everything comes together, where theory falls into practice. It has been both rewarding and, at times, overwhelming. There have been moments where I have felt proud and capable, forming meaningful connections with patients and contributing as part of a team. There have also been moments of being overwhelmed and testing my professional boundaries. However, with each placement, I have noticed my confidence growing. I am beginning to trust my instincts, communicate more effectively, and being comfortable in fast paced situations.

Balancing study, placement, work, and home life has been one of the greatest challenges during this time. Juggling long shifts, academic expectations, and family responsibilities has required constant adjustment and resilience. There have been days where I felt stretched thin, trying to give my best in every area of my life. However, I have learned the importance of prioritising, setting boundaries, and being kind to myself when things don’t go perfectly. I have also come to appreciate the strength I draw from my family. Spending time with my partner and son, whether it’s being out on country or simply being present together, has grounded me and reminded me of what truly matters.

Academically, this semester has continued to challenge me, particularly in areas such as research and leadership. There were times I doubted myself, especially leading into exams and assessments, but I am proud of the effort I put in. I have worked hard to improve my study habits and stay consistent, and it has been incredibly rewarding to see that effort reflected in my results. I have come a long way from when I first started to now, and this gives great sense of accomplishment alone.

What stands out most when I reflect on these past six months is the growth in my resilience. The moments of fatigue, self-doubt, and uncertainty have not held me back but instead, they have shaped me. They have taught me the importance of self-care, reflection, and perseverance. I am learning that being a good nurse is not about being perfect, but about being compassionate, willing to learn, and able to keep showing up even on the hard days.

As I look ahead, I am both excited and nervous about what comes next. I have applied for my graduate year, which I have been a successful applicant at Goulburn Valley Health in Shepparton. The thought of stepping fully into the role of a registered nurse excites me and I am aware of my responsibility within this role, which is also daunting at times. I hope to work in an acute or surgical setting and explore areas such as oncology or paediatrics where I feel I could make a meaningful difference.

I appreciate the Rotary Health Scholarship for allowing me to better myself, education and family through providing the funds to make this possible. I will always hold great gratitude and continue to recommend the scholarship to other community members. LaTrobe have also made me feel well supported academically and prioritising well-being. All my lecturers have been knowledgeable and supportive. I have also had ongoing support from Academy of Sport, Health and Education (ASHE) through the nursing program there. Where holistic needs are supported.

This journey has not been easy, but it has been deeply worthwhile. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities I have had, the support around me, and the growth I have experienced. These past six months have brought me closer to becoming the nurse I aspire to be; one who is compassionate, capable, and grounded in both skill and heart.