When Kayenat Ali enrolled in the Diploma of Community Services (CHC52015) at Chisholm, her initial career aspirations were clear: “My main priority when I first started studying was to help the people in my community.” This goal was meaningful to her, especially as a newly arrived refugee.

As she progressed through her studies and engaged in practical placements, she found there was more to her field than she initially thought. “Working in social services made me realise the need for more comprehensive training to better understand my clients’ needs.”

This fuelled her desire to pursue an Associate Degree in Psychology (CRS1401151) through Chisholm’s pathway program, enhancing her skills for practical solutions. The program’s flexible study days on Tuesdays and Wednesdays allowed her to balance work and education effectively.

Cost-effectiveness was another advantage, as Kayenat found it more affordable compared with other institutions. Her diploma included 400 hours of practical placements, which provided valuable tools and experience for her degree.

Furthermore, the support and guidance she received from her teachers and the opportunities they presented to her was “one of the main reasons that helped influence my decision to pursue a degree in psychology in the first place”, she said.

Kayenat plans to pursue her honours and become a clinical psychologist while remaining open to diverse settings. Her journey at Chisholm highlights the benefits of pathways, offering flexibility and support for achieving career aspirations. That flexibility enables students to transition from diplomas or certificates to degrees, defer qualifications to work, and return later to continue their careers.

We encourage you to explore pathways for yourself by following the link at www.chisholm.edu.au/students/pathways/pathways-to-degrees

CHISHOLM HIGHER EDUCATION COLLEGE
Frankston, Dandenong, Berwick campuses