Sophie Paine
Sophie Paine
- Student type: Domestic
- Degree type: Masters
- Degree(s): Master of Occupational Therapy Practice
Master of Occupational Therapy Practice
Meet Sophie, a Master of Occupational Therapy Practice graduate and athlete supported by the University’s Elite Student Performer Scheme. Sophie is working as a locum Occupational Therapist for Eastern Health.
“I think I’m most proud of being awarded the 2018 Year One Occupational Therapy Prize. The first year of the course was a tough one for me as I was still competing with the Women’s National Volleyball team and trying to juggle my academic commitments. So to be awarded that prize was a great moment because it really validated 12 months of hard work. It also gave me the confidence that I could manage quite a heavy workload as I make the transition into the workforce.
It's always a great privilege when you have the support of your institution to pursue extracurricular activities because it shows that they are genuinely student focused and really care about you as a whole person, not just as a student. The support that I received from both staff and the occupational therapy masters cohort was really amazing and it’s certainly something that doesn't happen everywhere, so I will always be really grateful for their guidance and patience with me.
For me, the highlight has always been the people I have met throughout the course, whether that be fellow students, lecturers, guest speakers, placement staff and placement clients. Each person has played a part in my learning and my understanding of occupational therapy and the boundless opportunities that are available within this profession. The professional connections and friendships that I have made both in metropolitan Melbourne but also in regional areas has been a great experience and are ones that I certainly feel are going to last throughout my career.”