Read what some of the recent participants from the WA Health Graduate Development Program have to say about how it prepared them for starting work with the Department on an ongoing basis.
Tahlia Murdoch
Why I joined the program
I was attracted to the WA Health Graduate Development Program (GDP) because of the diverse opportunities you are offered throughout the year. You rotate through three different areas of the organisation across the year and are offered robust professional development to make the transition from University to the workforce as easy as possible. More importantly, the program gives you the opportunity to use your skills and knowledge to provide an important service to the state.
Why I chose to work at WA Health
I wanted to use my finance and business skills to do more than just make someone money. I chose to work at WA Health because I am able to contribute to an organisation whose main goal is to achieve a healthy population, something which is critical to a healthy economy and a basic human right. I felt this would be very rewarding and allow me to make a difference, big or small.
The best aspects of the program
The strong support network of fellow graduates, the GDP coordinators as well as the mentor and buddy systems have been the best part of the program. When coupled with interesting and meaningful projects in each placement, this program gives you the challenges you want and the support you need.
My degree / qualifications
I have a Bachelor of Commerce (Economics) from Curtin University.
James Maddock
Why I joined the program
By offering three placements across three different areas, the Graduate Development Program was the perfect introduction to WA Health. I was particularly interested in project based placements, which allow for the development of a whole range of skills and provide a sense of achievement by requiring clear deliverables. Additionally, the three placements enable a greater understanding of the whole Department by offering exposure to its various facets.
Why I chose to work at WA Health
First and foremost, I joined WA Health to make a difference to the WA community. Coming from a rural background, I have an appreciation for the initiatives and schemes run all across the state, and I wanted to assist in the challenges WA Health faces in providing a full range of health services for a dispersed population.
The best aspects of the program
There are many great aspects of the Graduate Development Program, but my top three would be:
- The opportunity to undertake a Diploma of Management, which involves several full day training sessions aimed at developing a variety of essential career skills.
- Placements in three completely different areas to help you identify your interests and career direction.
- The mentoring program which provides support, a wealth of knowledge and a strategic perspective of WA Health.
My degree / qualifications
Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical) and Bachelor of Economics from the University of Western Australia.
Sue Su
Why I joined the program
There are many reasons to join this program. One of them is the opportunity of having three placement projects during the 12-month program. This gives me exposure to various areas across WA Health and helps me to explore my interests and future career pathway. The professional development and study support within the program is amazing, allowing me to get professional qualifications while at work.
Why I chose to work at WA Health
I found my passion whilst at university through being involved in several health promotion programs. So when I first heard about the WA Health Graduate Development Program, I felt it would be a great place to be. I look forward to contributing to health by utilising my accounting and finance knowledge and my past experience in health promotion.
The best aspects of the program
The best aspect of the Graduate Development Program is that it has provided me with access to an incredible variety of training, study and career development supports that all helps improve my work performance. It also provides great networking opportunities, allowing me to get to know other professionals and graduates, share experiences and learn from each other.
My degree / qualifications
I studied for a Bachelor of Economics, majoring in Finance at Sun Yat-sen University in China. I then continued my postgraduate study at the University of Melbourne and achieved a Master of Management, with a major in Accounting.
Amy Jackson
Why I joined the program
The Graduate Development Program provides Graduates with great opportunities to learn new skills through diverse placements and ongoing professional development. This attribute along with the provision of sound support networks made my choice an easy one.
Why I chose to work at WA Health
Given my keen interest in health and a desire to gain exposure within the public sector, WA Health was an ideal choice.
The best aspects of the program
Making great friends! I really enjoyed the professional development days, they were interactive and I found the topics discussed interesting and relevant. I also valued the opportunity to meet and work alongside a variety of people from diverse backgrounds during my three placements over the course of the 12-month program.
My degree / qualifications
Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting Major) from Curtin University.
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Graduate Development Program