• Charles Sturt STRIVE participant improving mental health in Central West
• STRIVE is a Charles Sturt student leadership program
• Mr Ryan Goodlock encourages current students to apply for the program

A Charles Sturt University graduate credits a leadership program for allowing him to pursue a ‘diverse and rewarding’ career in nursing.

Mr Ryan Goodlock grew up in Orange and attended Charles Sturt in Bathurst from 2018 while completing a Bachelor of Nursing.

He returned to Orange after graduating and is currently studying a Graduate Diploma of Clinical Practice (Paramedic) with Charles Sturt online.

“I chose Charles Sturt University as it is a regional university with the opportunity to get to know lecturers by name. I quickly learned where to find assistance if required,” he said.

He has been working at LiveBetter Community Services in disability accommodation for five years and it was there he realised his passion for helping people.

Upon graduation, Mr Goodlock also started working as a Registered Nurse working in acute mental health at Orange Health Service.

“I find nursing to be such a diverse and rewarding career,” he said.

“It brings me satisfaction to know that I’m helping individuals in such a vulnerable time of their lives.

“The practical component of my degree really assisted to build my clinical skillset and raise my confidence levels when treating real patients in different hospitals across the state.”

When Mr Goodlock was a Residential Advisor living on campus he heard about STRIVE, a leadership program that gives students access to 15 self-guided modules to enhance and improve leadership capabilities.

Mr Goodlock said participating in the STRIVE leadership program gave him skills that have assisted him to lead others and himself.

“The skills gained from STRIVE have assisted me to manage working while studying, obtaining academic assistance when required, which enhanced my study motivation and learning capabilities,” he said.

“I think it’s important the University offers leadership programs to students because it can assist in developing your capabilities and prepare you for a working life after graduation.”

Mr Goodlock recommends current students enroll in the program to build valuable leadership skills that will assist in future employment opportunities.

Discover other opportunities that Charles Sturt offers for student leaders on the University’s website.