Date: May 2024
Location: Dalby Hospital
University: The University of Queensland
Field of Study: Nursing and Midwifery
What did you enjoy most about your rural placement?
I was able to immerse myself in the community and put myself out there socially. I felt really welcomed by the Dalby hospital staff and rarely went more than a few days without a social invite. When on placement, I was exposed to a variety of learning experiences and cared for people from all walks of life. As such, I felt that the placement helped to form my identity within the midwifery profession. Over my time there, I got to know the staff well and they staff were eager to facilitate my learning, ensuring I was able to meet all of my learning goals.
Would you recommend a rural placement to other students? Why?
I would absolutely recommend a rural placement. It allowed me to deepen my midwifery skills as I was challenged every day with a new situation. As I developed a relationship with the staff, they were keen to involve me in interesting cases and challenge me by allowing me to act as primary carer with supervision. I feel that I would not be as confident in my skills as I am now without this experience.
What are your top tips for students considering a rural placement?
Did you stay in SQRH accommodation or have interaction with SQRH staff?
Yes, I met Telia Simpson while on placement and she acted as a learning facilitator. She was a great help and made herself available to discuss any questions or concerns I may have. I felt supported knowing she was there.
From Toowoomba to Charleville, Kingaroy to Goondiwindi, our students’ complete rural placements all over regional, rural, and remote Southern Queensland (across more than 400,000 square kilometres).
Learn first-hand from students, just like yourself, about their experience going on a rural placement, and why it’s an experience like no other!
If you want to share your rural placement experience with us, please email sqrh@uq.edu.au.
We would love to hear all about it!