Melinda Mitchell
From very early on I knew I wanted to work with people. In 2005 I started a traineeship with Disability ACT and my training with CIT seemed like a natural progression. Although working fulltime in the welfare sector since 2001, study has always been an important part of my development. I have now completed both a Diploma in Disability Work and Community Services Management.
I was not really sure what study was going to offer me at first, however making the future better for people with a disability was a real motivation.
Theory is part of the courses, however CIT provided me with hands on skills which I could take back to my workplace and apply right away.
People at CIT especially Woden Campus have been really supportive but still treat you like an adult. I found the teachers understood about studying and dealing with the challenges life can often bring.
I started working in the disability sector before beginning my training at CIT, however I found especially at job interviews, an interest in what I had been learning. I believe that I could not have become who I am today without the skills gained through CIT. The training at CIT also allowed me to develop my networks and build my confidence.
No doubt working in the disability sector has its challenges but being able to make a difference each day, and work where every day is different is its own reward.