Securing a position at university is usually based on resumes and school grades, but 17 year old student Hayden Piercy was recently accepted into the Australian Catholic University Early Achievers Program, thanks to his volunteer role at St John Ambulance (Qld).
Hayden has volunteered for St John (Qld) as a Cadet for more than two years, and said his motivation in life was to help others.
“Since joining St John and helping people in my community at local events, I have been able to live out my dream of providing assistance to sick and injured people,” he said.
“This sparked my interest in becoming a professional paramedic, and learning more about advanced life support and pain relief,” he said.
The ACU Early Achievers Program acknowledges volunteer involvement in the community and complements a student’s university submission.
“I really enjoy volunteering at St John as I am able to work side-by-side industry mentors such as doctors, nurses and paramedics who have taught me the sorts of things you can’t learn from simply reading a book.”
Hayden’s volunteer role with St John has allowed him to practice procedures on casualty simulation dummies as well as develop his oral and written skills.
“By attending events in my local area and treating real people with real injuries, I have learned how to communicate effectively with patients, who can sometimes be agitated or confused,” he said.
“Having the ability to speak to people and quickly find out what is wrong is such a vital skill in the medical industry, and is something students need to practice every day,” Hayden said.
Hayden is in his first year of a Bachelor of Nursing / Bachelor of Paramedicine, where he hopes to graduate as a paramedic and continue his work in the community.
“It is gratifying that my work in the community has been acknowledged, and has helped put me a step ahead of my peers.”
If you are interested in receiving nationally-recognised training in first aid, valuable experience in the medical industry or if just want to give back to your community, volunteer with St John (Qld) today.
The Nundah Combined Division meets every Tuesday at 6.30pm for Cadets and 7pm for adult members. All meetings are held at 106 Robinson Road East, Virginia.
To join the Division, or for more information, email nundah@stjohnqld.com.au or call 0411 720 607.
Photo ops and interviews are available upon request.
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