Charlotte completed a Bachelor of Nursing in 2013 and after working in Paediatric and Intensive Care Nursing she developed an interest in Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) nursing. Returning to postgraduate study to pursue her interests, Charlotte enrolled in the Master of Nursing (Advanced Practice).

“My long-term plan after my undergraduate studies was always to complete a master's degree, and I decided to pursue this when I realised AOD nursing was the specialty for me,” she said.

Charlotte faced challenges working as a registered nurse in the AOD field, but found the work highly rewarding. Providing treatment for those with substance use disorders meant she needed a solid foundation in practical nursing to make a real change in the industry.

“I knew completing post-grad study would enhance my knowledge and practical nursing skills, providing the opportunity to advance my career in AOD nursing and make an impact in this field, and to better support people who have substance use disorders,” she said.

Recalling her positive undergraduate experience, Charlotte knew she wanted to study again at Newcastle. Finding a program that supported her interest and was reflected in the major options gave her the confidence to know she was headed in the right direction.

“The great thing is, the subjects I have completed are designed so you can tailor the assessments to your specialty, which had increased my knowledge in the AOD field immensely,” she said.

Realising how relevant her study is, Charlotte has been implementing what she’s learning into her professional role. Understanding and addressing knowledge gaps within her field of study has had a positive impact on her career and the progress Charlotte is making within the AOD field.

“The skills and information I gained from completing the Knowledge Translation in Healthcare subject has been extremely valuable in addressing identified knowledge gaps, and I am excited to be able to put this into practice. It is a work-in-progress, but has been a key highlight in my degree,” she said.

Charlotte has enjoyed the flexibility online study has provided her. While living near the University, she has been able to study fully online to accommodate her work schedule and fit study around this.

“The flexibility, and to be able to complete the coursework at my own pace while working full-time, a structure that has worked very well and has been amazingly convenient,” she said.

When her schedule gets too hectic, Charlotte has been able to find a release by seeing family and friends, swimming, and asking for help when she needs it.

“Ask for help if you need it! The course coordinators want you to succeed, and asking for help early has been really beneficial,” she said.

Currently completing her final subject, Charlotte reflects on the most inspiring experience of her program having been the relevance to her career interests and addressing the gaps in practice.

“I am enjoying and really value the fact I am able to apply what I have learned into my daily practice, to address gaps in practice that will benefit people who suffer from substance use disorders,” she said.

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Charlotte Ismay

Making the transition from Paediatric and Intensive Care to Alcohol and Other Drugs nursing (AOD), Charlotte found the Master of Nursing supported her interest and specialty change. Now completing her last subject, Charlotte hopes to continue her postgraduate learning.

I knew completing post-grad study would enhance my knowledge and practical nursing skills, providing the opportunity to advance my career in AOD nursing and make an impact in this field, and to better support people who have substance use disorders.

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