Fitness and good health for all are the driving passions for Kate Farrugia, occupational therapy student and gym/pilates enthusiast. Kate first came to Monash to complete a bachelor’s degree in radiation sciences, but struggled to decide on what her next steps should be. After speaking to a number of students studying occupational therapy (OT), it was obvious to Kate that this was the career that aligned most with her values and interests.

While Kate has a deep appreciation for her learning, her favourite part of her studies so far was being able to study alongside other students who share her passion and enthusiasm for helping others. She looks forward to being able to call those other students her colleagues.

As an occupational therapy student, Kate has completed placements throughout her degree. Among them, she’s experienced working in mental health, community rehabilitation, paediatrics, and project management.

“I have loved each placement opportunity and have gained something different from each one.

My community rehabilitation placement had the biggest impact on me. During this placement, I loved working with clients in their home and environments where they feel most comfortable allowing me to gain a holistic view of their individual needs.”

Kate’s community rehabilitation placement was with Austin Health, in the health and independence program, where she was able to practise her skills.

“The team I was working with were incredibly supportive and knowledgeable. They created a safe environment in which I was able to continually ask questions and practise my skills as an OT, including facilitating client sessions and completing assessments with clients. During this placement, I was able to see first hand the benefit that an OT working in the community has, which I find very inspiring.”

Gaining an understanding of community work changed Kate’s perspective on her future career. Now she hopes to provide individualised care for people in her community.

“I have found that community work is where I feel the most passionate and where I can add the most value. Working with and being able to develop unique therapy sessions for individuals with a variety of needs and goals makes me feel proud and privileged. I hope to enable individuals to independently engage and participate in the occupations that are meaningful to them,”

As part of Kate’s OT course, she was able to complete a Participatory Community Project (PCP). This was an opportunity for her to apply her skills and put them to the test, with a self-directed project.

“My PCP partner and I created an audit tool to improve the accessibility and inclusivity of Allianz Insurance’s Personal Injury Insurance to empower individuals with disabilities and differences engaging with the service. The highlight of the PCP was being part of a project that will have a continually positive impact on the community. As a whole, the project helped me develop my negotiation, conflict resolution, and time management skills, which are all relevant and necessary for an OT.”

OT is an important field that allows therapists to work directly with patients to provide the best health outcomes possible. For any students looking to pursue a career in OT, Kate has some important advice.

“Build connections with your peers. They are able to provide you with incredible support throughout the course, helping you to understand difficult concepts but also providing incredible long-lasting friendships. The Master of Occupational Therapy Practice is such a rewarding and fulfilling course and I’d encourage hardworking and passionate individuals to apply.”

Find out more about the Master of Occupational Therapy Practice.