Valedictorian’s new role in ICU
SAMI Groom is no stranger to high pressure situations – after all, she is mother to four sons.
Her grit and talent has already secured her a job in a Toowoomba intensive care ward but before she put on her scrubs, Mrs Groom was valedictorian at a University of Southern Queensland summer graduation ceremony.
Her journey was one of many celebrated during a series of ceremonies at the Empire Theatre.
“Life will always be busy. I spent a recent weekend finishing my graduation speech and making a birthday cake for my middle child who turned 10,” Mrs Groom said.
“My story is that I graduated high school, got married and had babies, and when my youngest started kindy I returned to study.
“I was doing two subjects a semester to keep my study within school hours plus taking every summer semester to get through it a bit faster. But as my kids got older and more independent, I was able to increase my subject load.
“It’s been really good that the university has been flexible and supportive.”
The Bachelor of Nursing graduate starts her new job this month, returning to the site of her last placement – St Andrew’s Hospital.
“I interviewed for a graduate position which would rotate around the wards but they offered me a position in the ICU,” Mrs Groom said.
“It’s a big deal and there’s a lot to learn but I’m looking forward to joining their great team.
“Every environment you walk into is different and the university does a good job of preparing you for a variety of roles.
“I think that comes from the hands-on experiences, and the fact that the lecturers and tutors have all worked in nursing, or are still working in nursing part time, and often share their stories about things that have happened across the sector.”