After 17 years in administration, Elizabeth felt something was missing. Her job was stable, but her heart wanted more. Elizabeth felt she could give back more and make someone’s life better.
Some of her friends were working in aged care. They spoke about connection, purpose and community. Their stories stayed with her.
“It took me a while to think about it,” Elizabeth admits. Changing careers is never a small decision.”
A conversation with a Salvation Army representative changed everything with a recommendation to speak with Macquarie Community College. Elizabeth reached out and felt supported immediately.
“The MCC team helped me every step of the way,” she says.
“I started the Certificate III very quickly.”
Today, Elizabeth is studying the CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) and building a career she feels proud of.
A Personal Connection to Aged Care
For Elizabeth, aged care is deeply personal. Her father passed away when she was very young. Growing up without a parent shaped her perspective.
“I always felt a connection to elderly people,” she shares.
“I just want to be around them.”
On her first day at MCC, she felt nervous. Walking into a new classroom can be overwhelming.
Then she met her trainer, Jas Khanooja.
“He had the most beautiful smile,” she recalls. “He was funny and made us laugh straight away.”
The nerves disappeared quickly. The classroom felt safe, warm and welcoming.
“I think Jas has a special way of building trust,” she says.
Elizabeth formed friendships with classmates who share similar values.
“We are all doing this for the right reasons,” she explains.
Online Zoom classes feel connected and interactive.
“It’s not like studying alone,” she says.
“When we meet for practical days, we feel like old friends.”
The Pride of Making a Difference
Elizabeth has now worked in aged care for two years. She feels proud when she talks about her job.
“In admin, I never felt proud to say what I did,” she reflects.
“Now I proudly say I work in aged care.”
What she values most is dignity. Many clients struggle with losing independence.
They still want control over their lives.
“I learned how important respect really is,” she explains.
Her clients share incredible life stories. They speak about resilience, hardship and love.
“They have so much wisdom to give us,” she says.
Personal care once worried her. She thought she might not cope with that responsibility.
Now it is her favourite part of the role.
“It’s very personal,” she explains.
“I help someone shower or get dressed.”
“I help them feel comfortable and confident again.”
You walk away with gratitude. You walk away feeling proud to support older Australians.
Balancing Study, Family and Dreams
Elizabeth balances study, work and family life. She sometimes wonders how women manage everything. Yet she continues to prove it is possible.
Her partner and sister are her biggest supporters.
“They think it’s amazing,” she smiles.
She loves sharing stories from her course with her children. It teaches them about ageing and empathy.
“They learn older people are not just old,” she says.
“They have meaningful lives and experiences.”
When she completes her Certificate III, Elizabeth may continue studying. A Diploma is something she is considering. For now, she is focused on finishing strong.
Advice for Future Aged Care Students
Elizabeth’s advice is simple and honest.
“You will know quickly if it’s right for you,” she says.
She suggests starting with social support work. It helps you discover if you connect with older people.
“If you feel that connection, everything else comes naturally.”
She also reassures future students about employment opportunities.
“There are so many jobs in aged care,” she explains.
“The sector really needs the right people.”
Completing an CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) opens many doors.
Start Your Aged Care Career with MCC
At Macquarie Community College learning feels personal. Trainers are warm, approachable and very supportive. Classes are engaging, practical and community focused.
Elizabeth’s journey shows that meaningful career change is possible. Aged care is not just a job. It is work you do with your heart.
If you are ready for a career with purpose, MCC is here to support you.