Meet Brooke Boulton, a driven individual with a passion for justice and a future graduate of the Diploma of Justice (22594VIC) at Bendigo TAFE. In this blog post, we delve into Brooke's experiences, the skills she acquired, and the challenges she overcame during her pursuit of a career in the justice sector.
Brooke's Motivation: A Future Police Officer
Brooke embarked on the Diploma of Justice with a clear goal in mind – to become a Police Officer. Her journey at Bendigo TAFE has equipped her with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue this noble profession. Upon completion of the course, she envisions applying to join Victoria Police or considering further studies at La Trobe University.
Choosing Justice: A Balance of Study and Work
"I chose to study Justice as I knew I wanted to complete further study while maintaining a part-time job," says Brooke. The program's flexibility allowed her to strike a balance between academic pursuits and real-world work experience. The course's focus on investigation techniques used by the police and the management of offenders by Community Corrections Officers resonated with Brooke's interests, making it an ideal choice for her career aspirations.
Skills Gained: A Holistic Approach to Justice
The Diploma of Justice curriculum at Bendigo TAFE offers a holistic approach to justice education. Brooke highlights her newfound understanding of Victorian legislation, the ability to support individuals who have experienced trauma through family violence, and the preparation of official documents for justice organisations. Moreover, she has honed her skills in case management, gaining insights into how to support offenders through the court and correction process.
One notable aspect of Brooke's journey is the improvement in her public speaking skills. The program not only focuses on theoretical knowledge but also on practical skills crucial for a career in justice. "I am no longer as nervous when I have to do a presentation in front of a large group of people," Brooke shares, emphasising the program's impact on her personal and professional development.
Overcoming Challenges: The Importance of Discipline
Like many students, Brooke faced challenges during her studies. One major hurdle was finding the motivation to complete assessments and pre-reading at home. However, she discovered that this challenge diminished as the course progressed. Reflecting on her experience, Brooke recommends future students establish a study schedule and dedicate specific days to study. Certain teachers played a pivotal role in supporting her by providing study timetables and hard copies of assessments, facilitating a more organized approach to her studies.
Advice for Future Students: Building Strong Connections
Brooke's advice to future students is to establish strong relationships with both teachers and peers. These connections not only alleviate any awkwardness during assessments but also contribute to a positive learning environment. Attending lectures and optional study sessions is another piece of advice from Brooke, as these opportunities help students get to know their classmates, fostering a sense of community within the program.
In conclusion, Brooke Boulton's journey through Bendigo TAFE's Diploma of Justice exemplifies the program's commitment to shaping well-rounded, skilled professionals in the field of justice. For those considering a path in justice, this diploma not only provides academic knowledge but also instills practical skills and fosters a supportive community for personal and professional growth.
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