Completing an internship can be both exciting and daunting at the same time. It’s the start of something different, the time when new learnings, experiences and challenges are thrown at you. Nakita Kirby knows all too well the life of an intern and how the experience can help shape your future.
For Nakita, who is currently in the third year of her Bachelor of Health Science degree, it wasn’t hard to choose Medibank as the company to work for.
“The organisation CareerTrackers placed me with Medibank because they were aware of the extensive work they do within the wider community. That was the main reason why I was so drawn to an internship here.”
Throughout her time with Medibank, Nakita has worked across various parts of the business including three different States.
“I started during the summer of 2015 in the Care Complete Program in Brisbane, then transferred over to Melbourne to work across a number of wellbeing projects. This year, I’m working in Sydney gaining exposure to new departments including; Relationship Management, People & Culture, and right across the Mental Health sector.”
Nakita says that her favourite memory so far during her time at Medibank was the opportunity to help out with the new Aboriginal Health Engagement Strategy.
“I grew up in a small community impacted by ongoing health issues. It’s something I have always been concerned about and felt that something needed to be done. I’m hoping to one day work with an organisation that addresses health issues throughout Indigenous communities. Working on the NSW and ACT Aboriginal Health Engagement Strategy was a great example of this and aligns well with my post-study goals.”
Through all the work that Nakita has completed with different teams and mentors, it has been a journey filled with new learnings, goal setting, and most of all fun.
“When I first started at Medibank, I was overwhelmed by how welcoming everyone was. I have never felt like an outsider, as my colleagues are always willing to assist and answer any questions I have. My colleagues are very friendly, there is a lot of flexibility and it is definitely not as daunting as I thought it would be.”
Completing her second-year internship with Medibank, Nakita can honestly say she has been provided with amazing opportunities, valuable lessons and a fantastic environment to blossom.
“Interning with a company such as Medibank, offers the ability to network, gain exposure to a large business and the opportunity to surround yourself with friendly and helpful colleagues.”
Recently, Nakita was presented the Golden Diary Award, which is earned by CareerTrackers students who are successful in achieving a distinction average or higher in their university studies.
“I had no idea that I was going be a Golden Diary Award recipient! It’s such an honour and a nice validation that I’m on track to achieve my goals.”
#community #diversity #health #indigenous #indigenousstudents #internship #mentalhealth