BDC Alumni 2020, Bianca De Jong was destined for a career in health. 

“During year 11 and 12, I completed the Certificate III in Allied Health Care (AIN) as one of my ATAR subjects,” she says, “and this helped me to get an insight into the industry and gain valuable experience, which reconfirmed my decision to pursue a career in health.” 

“Thanks to my qualification gained during my HSC, I have already gained employment in the health industry. It has been fantastic to be able to put my learning into practice, and has shown me that I have made the right choice.” 

Bianca is working at the Coffs Harbour Health Campus as an AIN (Assistant in Nursing), specialising in one on one care. She also is a support worker assisting a patient with severe physical disability.  

“The more I learn, the more experience I have, the more passionate I become. And I am sure that I will have a long career in the industry.” 

Bianca went on to apply for the Southern Cross University Bachelor of Nursing program, and through her experience and results in her AIN program, was awarded a Southern Cross University 2021 Chancellor’s Scholarship. 

“I was absolutely delighted and very proud when I was awarded this scholarship,” she says. “The scholarship has allowed me to stay in the area to continue my studies, which during COVID has been really valuable. 

“It has also allowed me to stay close to my support networks and start my tertiary education experience without the added stress of living away from home. 

With COVID lockdowns in 2021, her experience with online learning during year 12 in 2020 has been valuable for her first year of tertiary studies. 

“I’ve really enjoyed the transition from school to tertiary education. COVID and online learning has been challenging but I am learning what  love and being supported by professionals in their field. Being the first Year 12 cohort to  adjust to online learning has helped make the process easier.”