Caring comes naturally for Level 4 student Maria Guthrie after a lifetime spent supporting her loved ones.

Name: Maria Guthrie

Qualification: New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Advanced Support) (Level 4)

Growing up looking after her mother who suffered from a rare illness, Maria Guthrie describes her decision to pursue a career in caring as “not a conscious decision but more of a natural progression”.

Initially planning to become a nurse, Maria began studying towards a nursing qualification but put this on hold when her partner was left paralysed after a serious accident.

“My partner at the time broke his neck and became a tetraplegic, so I gave up the opportunity to become a nurse and cared for him for the next 20 odd years,” said Maria.

She returned to work in the healthcare sector in 2007 and is now studying towards a Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Advanced Support) (Level 4) at NZTC. Just one month into the program, she has already seen changes in her practice.

“I have already found myself applying some of the strategies and theories and I’m more aware of the weaknesses and strengths within our care facility,” said Maria.

Despite feeling overwhelmed at times, she has been impressed by the college’s support and says choosing to study with NZTC was “the best decision”.

“The college support is outstanding. I know that when I need support there is always going to be someone there, whether that’s the tutors, IT or pastoral support.”

Maria encourages other healthcare assistants considering study to “go for it”, and avoid letting their doubts hold them back.

“I would advise them to believe in themselves. When in doubt there is always someone on the end of the phone or computer to support every step of the way.”