Student Spotlight - Kirsten Pini
Friday, 14 March 2025
For Kirsten Pini (they/them), studying at Wodonga TAFE wasn’t just about gaining a qualification—it was about rediscovering themselves, reigniting a passion, and embarking on a career that truly makes a difference. Now a qualified Occupational Therapist, Kirsten’s journey proves that it’s never too late to chase your dreams.
Kirsten’s education journey has been anything but traditional. After completing Year 10, they explored multiple Certificate III, IV, and Diploma courses before taking a long break to focus on work, family, and raising children. Years later, with a wealth of life experience gained, Kirsten decided it was time to invest in themselves.“After putting myself last for so many years while raising a family, I decided it was time to start doing something just for ‘me’,” Kirsten explains.
Kirsten's choice to pursue a career in allied health was shaped by personal experiences. Growing up, Kirsten witnessed how allied health professionals supported their father through spinal injuries and was also able to see firsthand the impact that allied health had on their own children with disabilities. These experiences inspired Kirsten to follow a similar path and make a meaningful difference in people's lives. “Seeing how much of a positive impact allied health professionals had on my loved ones really inspired me. I wanted to be able to do the same for others,” Kirsten says. Returning to study after a long break wasn’t easy, but Kirsten found that the Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance at Wodonga TAFE provided the perfect stepping stone. It not only helped Kirsten regain confidence in their own academic abilities but also laid a strong foundation for continuing to university studies in Occupational Therapy. “The Cert IV was my little ‘step’ back into studying after so long. The practical experiences and knowledge I gained helped me transition into university life and perform better in my degree,” Kirsten shares.
Kirsten’s time at TAFE wasn’t without obstacles. Between caring for three children with disabilities, supporting a family member transitioning out of the defence force, and working through personal challenges, balancing study was no easy feat. To top it off, much of the course took place during COVID-19 lockdowns, forcing a sudden shift to online learning. Despite these hurdles, Kirsten found unwavering support in the Wodonga TAFE teachers and classmates. “The teaching staff and my peers were incredibly supportive. The friendships I made during my studies are amazing, and I’m still in touch with many of them today!” Kirsten says.
Kirsten has already made incredible strides in their career, from starting out at an Allied Health Assistant in the local hospital, to working as an Occupational Therapist in a paediatric setting, and that’s just the start for Kirsten. With plans to dive into research and start publishing academic articles, Kirsten’s passion for learning is as strong as ever. “I have more study planned and hope to publish articles stemming from my dissertation. In 2025, I’ll be starting two new local jobs—one in paediatrics and one working with adults,” Kirsten shares. For anyone considering a career in allied health, Kirsten has one message: just go for it!
“Just take the leap and do it! It’s so rewarding academically, financially, and for your career progression. But more than anything, the best part is the difference you can make in someone’s life.”
If you’re inspired by Kirsten’s story and want to take the first step towards a fulfilling career in healthcare, Wodonga TAFE’s Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (HLT43021) is the perfect place to start. Take that leap—you never know where it might lead!
Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance - Wodonga TAFE
RTO 3097