From Classroom to Clinic: Kristen's Journey from Education to Podiatry

After dedicating 16 years to education as a Primary School Teacher and Assistant Principal, Kristen felt it was time for a new chapter in her career. Driven by a strong desire to continue helping others, she found herself drawn to the health sector. “At my core, I’m passionate about helping people, and health seemed like a great area to work in to do this”, she explained.

Initially, Kristen explored various health-related careers. Podiatry wasn’t on her radar until she met a passionate professional in the field. Through their inspired story, Kristen learnt about the diverse opportunities podiatry offered. "Podiatry offers a wide scope of practice, allowing you to work in private or public care, be self-employed or work for someone else. Best of all, you don't take your work home! This convinced me, and I enrolled at the University of Newcastle then and there," Kristen shared.

Being a Newcastle native, Kristen was thrilled to study locally. As a new podiatry student, she visited the Ourimbah campus for the first time and was captivated by its bushland setting, describing it as "beautiful." Kristen was also impressed by the industry leading facilities available for podiatry studies.

Taking advantage of the hands-on approach in the podiatry program, she dedicated a significant portion of her studies to gaining clinical experience and treating patients. With clinics at Wyong Hospital and Hunter Street in Newcastle, she was able to apply theoretical knowledge in practice and network with industry professionals. "We were very fortunate to be taught by a podiatric surgeon and other practicing podiatrists in both private and public sectors," she said.

"The final semester of the podiatry degree is almost entirely practical experience. The most valuable aspect of these placements was the opportunity to witness the real world of podiatry firsthand. It allowed me to explore both private and public sectors, helping me make an informed decision about where my passion lies," she said. Kristen highlighted the hands-on anatomy classes, experience working with cadavers, and state-of-the-art facilities as some of the key benefits of the program.

After graduating in 2017, Kristen began her podiatry career at a clinic in Salamander Bay. She then accepted a position at Hunter Podiatry, a decision she has never regretted. Since joining, Kristen has become a part-owner of the Singleton practice and works from there, as well the sister clinic in East Maitland. She specialises in paediatric podiatry, where most of her clients are children.

Kristen dedicates one day a week to supervising university students as they treat paediatric patients. Since her graduation, the university's facilities have significantly expanded, now offering students access to shockwave therapy, laser treatment for tissue regeneration and dermatological pathologies, dermatoscopes, 3D scanning for custom orthoses, and online exercise programs.

Kristen now mentors two podiatrists, supporting their clinical and personal development. "I love my role as a teacher and mentor because I enjoy sharing my passion for podiatry with others," she expressed.

Kristen is grateful for her time at the University of Newcastle. The reputation of the podiatry program helped her secure her first job in the field. "It's a fantastic place to study! The campus is beautiful, the facilities are excellent, and the opportunities are endless!" she shared.

Kristen Stone

From classroom to clinic: hear from podiatry graduate, Kristen Stone, and her unique journey from education to podiatry.

We were very fortunate to be taught by a podiatric surgeon and other practicing podiatrists in both private and public sectors