Testimonials
2009 Graduates
Jessica Braithwaite
Why I joined the Program
I joined the program because it offered a wide range of projects from varying disciplines including health promotion, clinical service redesign, project management, health economics, epidemiology and many more. Upon graduating I didn't know which area I'd be best suited to, so the program was a natural choice for me because of the variety of opportunities that were on offer.
Why I chose to work at the Department of Health
I chose to work at Department of Health because I have a great interest in health service delivery and am keen to be part of an organisation that works to improve the health and wellbeing of all West Australians. I also have a great desire be involved in the planning, development and implementation of a patient focused health care system that meets the needs of patients and provides health services that are safe, accessible and of high quality.
The best aspects of the Program so far
Throughout the program I have been able to participate in many professional development activities including breakfast seminars, computer software training and information sessions on how the public sector operates. It has also been great to have the opportunity to work on three different projects in one year. This has enabled me to develop a wide range of skills and invaluable networks with senior staff. I have also enjoyed the mentoring program, through which I have gained a high level of support and have been able to tap into a wealth of knowledge of how the WA Health system operates.
Your degree/qualifications
Bachelor of Health Science/Commerce with Honours from the University of Western Australia. I majored in Public Health, Pathology, Management and Human Resource Management.
2008 Graduates
Steph Hocking
Why I joined the Program
I joined the program to give myself a head start in my career. This was especially important to me as I completed a degree that did not give a designated profession at the end of it. By joining the program I was able to further the skills that I obtained through my university degree and had the opportunity to use them and build on them to make me better suited to the public sector workforce.
Why I chose to work at the Department of Health
The Department of Health offered a program that allowed movement through different areas of the service allowing me the opportunity to discover the areas of government that most interest me. I also want to make a difference in my working career and Health fits with this ideal by being about the well being of the people who live in this State.
The best aspects of the Program so far
The program is very supportive with supervisors, mentors, past and present graduates all happy to help if you have any questions making you feel part of a team. The connections that I have made through the graduate program have been invaluable this year as I am sure they will be in the future.
Your degree/qualifications
Bachelor of Science (Life Sciences) with Honours
Ben Juengling
Why I joined the Program
The graduate program was an obvious choice after leaving university because it was an opportunity to become familiar with, and gain experience across, three very different parts of the Department. The program also had a strong reputation, especially at my university, for providing one of the most supportive, structured and interesting grad programs in the public sector.
Why I chose to work at the Department of Health
I initially chose to work at the Department of Health because of a desire to be involved in delivering health services to Western Australians. I also wanted to work for an organisation that provided the prospect of being able to work in different roles throughout my career. Because the Department is so large, you have the opportunity to try something new without having to having to find a job with another organisation.
The best aspects of the Program so far
This program recognises that you are new to the workforce and gives you the option of working in areas that interest you and on projects that are suitable to your level of experience. The Institute for Healthy Leadership is always available to provide direction and support when you need it.
I like that it gives you the opportunity to create great networks with senior staff who know the health system. I've found that these people are more than willing to share their knowledge and experience and help you where they can.
I've also made some great friends with fellow staff as a result of each placement.
Your degree/qualifications
I have a degree in Health Science / Commerce from the University of Western Australia where I majored in Public Health, Human Movement, Management and Human Resource Management.
2008 Graduates
2007 Graduates
- View the 2007 description of the graduates' placements [PDF 3,728KB]
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