Meet Christine
About me
Name: Christine Basco
Job: Nurse at Epworth Healthcare
VET: Certificate II in Community Services
Location: Braybrook
My VET subjects opened my eyes to what I was passionate about
My story
What was your VET journey?
As part of my Certificate II in Community Services, I completed my work placement as a SCOPE Facility which supports people with disabilities. This not only confirmed but strengthened my passion to advocate for stigmatised population groups within the community, and especially those who aren’t in a position to speak up for themselves.
I followed this passion and began my nursing career in the rehabilitation department. I am currently working in peri-operative services, specialising in Anaesthetics and Recovery Nursing (Post Anaesthesia Care Unit). I love being able to provide care and advocate for people when they are in their most vulnerable state.
What advice would you give to students who are considering a vocational pathway?
Go for it! You’ll learn something new, discover your passion, and become more adaptable. Don’t leave your curiosity unanswered! You might regret it later, and think “What if I did this back then???!!!...” So put your feet in and enjoy the ride!
What challenges did you face along the way?
When I was at school, my friends and I experienced a lot of stigma because of our ethnic backgrounds: Asian and Pacific Islander. This contributed to my passion to advocate for people while also respecting and celebrating diverse ethnicities and cultures.
Work hours?
Morning, afternoon or evening shifts which are planned in advance.
Inside or outside?
Inside
Solo or teamwork?
Combination. But most of the time we work within a multi-disciplinary team of healthcare professionals.
Perks?
One of the perks of becoming a nurse is the flexibility to gain experience in different areas of nursing. As an example, you can transition from being an ICU nurse into a theatre - anaesthetic nurse, at any time in your career.
People don't know?
I want to one day hopefully join the United Nations First Responders team to provide first hand medical assistance when there is a humanitarian emergency cause by natural disasters or crisis. For example, earthquakes, disease outbreaks or an epidemic.
Average salary?
$2,500 per week for an experienced nurse.
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