Maria Montero
Maria Montero found her vocation in healthcare after moving to New Zealand and pursuing Level 3 studies with the college.
Name: Maria Montero
Qualification: New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing – Health Assistance Strand (Level 3)
Maria Montero found her new path in healthcare later in life.
Watching her mother work as a nurse and “the difference she made in people’s lives” inspired the 52-year-old to apply for a job in an Occupational Therapy team after moving to New Zealand from Chile.
Shortly afterwards, Maria enrolled at NZTC to get a better understanding of her clients’ conditions and needs.
"While studying, I’ve learnt a lot about how clients should be treated, respecting their preferences and needs, as well as the importance of following a personal care plan and many strategies that can help to support their recovery and day-to-day life,” she says.
“I chose NZTC because it’s an online course, and everything works perfectly. I can access many study resources and the staff are very kind and ready to help, always motivating the students.”
We asked Maria a few questions about her healthcare journey:
How did your journey start?
When I first arrived in New Zealand, my English wasn’t very good. I started volunteer work in a place called The Arts Village, because I enjoy arts and crafts. After doing that and some other jobs, I decided to apply for my current role in an Occupational Therapy team because they needed someone to help the clients during recreational activities, and I discovered that I love it!
What do you like most about working in healthcare?
I enjoy working with people, motivating them and developing activities. I also enjoy listening to their stories and sharing my time.
How have you found studying online?
Studying online has been a super good option for me because I can manage my time and balance work life and family life, while still enjoying all my hobbies.
Do you have any future plans and goals?
For now, I want to finish my Level 3 study program – that will be in May 2024. I’ve found my real vocation and I don’t want to stop learning. I would like to find another course in Recreational Therapy, or Enrolled Nursing.