Laura Schmidt is a graduate registered nurse based at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Adelaide.

1. What inspired you to pursue a career in nursing?

My mother has been my greatest inspiration in pursuing nursing. In 2023, she celebrated an incredible milestone – 50 years of dedication to the profession. I’ve always admired her unwavering work ethic, selflessness, and commitment to give back and serve the community. Her many years in theatre instilled deep respect and intrigue for the profession and a desire to follow in her footsteps. To me, nursing is not just a career but a meaningful way to give back and make a difference. I feel nursing is a profession to be proud of, and I have her to thank for the passion I have found in this career.

2. How does your first year as a grad compare to what you expected?

This first year has flown by with a mix of excitement, challenges, and accomplishments. Reflecting on my first year as a nursing graduate, I see how much I’ve grown professionally and personally.

I was lucky enough to be accepted for a position through the Transition to Professional Practice Program (TPPP). This program offers two 6-month rotations in separate areas, along with educators on-call to mentor, and professional development days for further training to efficiently prepare and equip new nurses to the workforce. I was offered my first preference in the perioperative area specialising in Anaesthetics which was beyond my expectations. The second rotation was a ward placement at the same hospital. Upon completion of the program, you receive a certificate and potential offers of further employment to progress your career. Over the past year these two rotations have connected me with patients, their families and multidisciplinary teams and have been the most fulfilling experience. They’ve taught me that nursing is more than clinical skills; it’s about empathy, communication and truly being present in someone’s most vulnerable moments.

3. What’s been your most memorable moment so far?

During my time in Theatre, I was lucky to be a part of the move at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital from the old building where my mum had worked for many years, over to the brand-new opening of the Kangkanthi building. This was eventful, exciting and made an incredible ‘once in a lifetime’ experience to be a part of. The move from the old building where staff had worked for many years, and seeing what they all have created in this new building was an incredible experience. I could not speak more highly of the staff in Anaesthetics and the wider multidisciplinary team in peri-op at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital who welcomed me, embraced me as part of their team and taught me a world of wisdom. They all collectively made my time there a positive and memorable experience.

I have also been lucky enough to have some of the kindest and appreciative patients along the way. Patients who acknowledge your work and express gratitude can make the world of difference and a reminder of the impact you can make.

4. What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a new grad?

The two rotations in the Transition to Professional Practice Program (TPPP) are vastly different. The challenge of stepping out of my comfort zone and transitioning to an area with unfamiliar routines and a different team created a learning curve but has overall enhanced my learning and ability to adapt to new environments. The TPPP educators were always available for a debrief and to check-in. One of the great opportunities the TPPP provides is being able to trial different areas of nursing which you would have otherwise never have chosen and in turn gives you more experience for continual opportunities in your future career.

5. What’s your go-to snack for staying energised during a busy shift?

My go-to snack is a banana. Its quick and great for an energy boost with natural sugars and potassium. I like to be organised and pack Greek yoghurt, giving me a source of protein which helps to stay energised and adding fresh fruits adds vitamins, minerals, fibre and doesn’t fill you up too much that it makes you lethargic afterwards. Being organised with food sounds easy but shift work can catch up with you, especially if you are not fuelling your body right.

6. How do you unwind after a long day at work?

After a long day at work I like to take time to relax and recharge. I do this by listening to a good podcast and walking down the beach for some vitamin D. I also suggest reformer pilates as a great way to keep your muscles active, making your back stronger for during the day. And lastly, The New York Times ‘Connections’ is a great fun way to keep your mind strong and end your day. And sometimes just lay down, that’s okay too!

7. What advice would you give to nursing students or those about to graduate?

My advice would be to not doubt your abilities and have confidence in your knowledge. Embrace opportunities as they become your experiences and never be afraid to ask questions. Questioning creates learning, which in turn is knowledge and makes you a better nurse.