The opportunity to put theory into practice throughout her studies at USC gave Sarsha Pincini the confidence to step straight into a job as an occupational therapist.

By the time Sarsha, who grew up in Bundaberg and attended Shalom College, graduated from USC with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (OT) in April, she had completed 1,000 hours of professional field work and clinical placements.

Now working as an OT in aged care in Hervey Bay, Sarsha, 23, said her studies at USC struck the right balance between theory and practice.

“We had access to the OT simulation unit and different assistive equipment at USC to really help us refine key skills before heading out on work placements,” said Sarsha. “Then the clinical placements played a major role in developing confidence.

“Now that I’m in the ‘real world’, I also appreciate just how important all the theoretical content was too – even the material I learnt back in my first semester.”

Occupational therapists help people overcome limitations caused by injury, illness and ageing. Sarsha’s current role is mainly centred around pain management for her elderly clients but she hopes to work in neurological rehabilitation in the future.

“My final work placement during my degree exposed me to neurorehab and I developed a real interest in it,” she said. “I would eventually like to work in this field and I’d also like to work as an OT overseas, hopefully in England, for a few years too.”

Sarsha said she chose to study at USC because its proximity to Bundaberg meant she could drive home to Bundaberg for weekends and holidays.

“My best friend from high school was going to study there as well, so having that familiarity was comforting when moving out of home for the first time,” she said.

“I also think the location was fantastic – 15 minutes from the beach, capital city an hour away and the beautiful hinterland just around the corner.”

Applications are now open to start studying at USC in July. For more information visit usc.edu.au/midyear or contact the University at information@usc.edu.au or 5430 2890.

Image supplied by Silver Rose Photography.

— Jane Cameron