Life Long Learning

For many, the idea of returning to study after years in the workforce and/or raising a family can be daunting. However, for Jo, lifelong learning became a way to expand her skills, embrace new challenges, and make a real difference in rural health. Her journey from physiotherapy to health promotion and agricultural health shows the opportunities that education can provide.

A Shift in Focus

Jo began her career as a physiotherapist after completing her degree at Curtin University. After years in the field and a variation of other health related roles, she felt drawn to the broader impact of public health. Wanting to explore opportunities beyond one-on-one patient care, she decided to study a Postgraduate Diploma in Health Promotion through Deakin University—entirely online.

Studying online gave Jo the flexibility she needed to balance coursework with family commitments. “Having recorded lectures was a game-changer,” she recalls. “I could pause, rewind, and take notes at my own pace, making it much easier to absorb the content.” The interactive elements of her course, such as online discussion boards and virtual study groups, helped her feel connected despite studying remotely.

Jo’s passion for rural health led her to a Graduate Certificate in Agricultural Health and Medicine. She secured a scholarship opportunity through the National Centre for Farmer Health, which helped fund her participation in an intensive program in Victoria. This experience deepened her understanding of the unique health challenges faced by farming communities, from workplace safety to mental health.

Applying Knowledge to the Real World

After completing her studies, Jo secured a role with Holyoake, where she now applies her expertise in health promotion to support rural communities. Her background in physiotherapy and public health allows her to take a holistic approach to health initiatives. Whether working on programs related to alcohol and other drugs or advocating for better healthcare access in agricultural regions, Jo’s education has empowered her to make a meaningful impact.

Advice for Future Students

Jo encourages others to remain open to new opportunities and not to fear returning to study, no matter their age or career stage. “Going back to university after 25 years was scary at first, but you get the hang of it quickly if you’re motivated,” she says. “There’s so much support available, and if you take the leap, you could very well find yourself loving it.”

She also emphasizes the importance of keeping career options open. While she originally pursued physiotherapy, she later found a passion for health promotion and community health. “If I could give my younger self advice, it would be to not get pigeonholed too early. Stay open to different career paths—you never know where your interests might take you.”

Jo’s story is a reminder that education is not a one-time event but a lifelong journey. Whether changing careers, expanding knowledge, or discovering new passions, further study can open doors and create opportunities to make a lasting difference. For anyone considering taking the next step in their education, Jo’s advice is simple:

“Jump in, give it a go, and embrace the possibilities.”