Mia Maron (2012) while searching for what she wanted to do in the future Mia completed a Bachelor of Health Science and a Graduate Diploma in Project Management at the University of South Australia. She then completed her Masters in Speech Pathology at Flinders University. She now works as a Speech Pathologist with the Department of Education.

“In my job, I visit kindergartens and schools to assess a child/student’s speech, language and/or literacy skills. I also conduct monitoring progress sessions to see if goals are still relevant and adjust them when needed.”

She continues “I might complete some observations of classroom environments and conduct professional development sessions with staff. Once back in the office I would call parents or email teachers to inform them of the session outcomes so that everyone is aware.”

In her role, Mia visits kindergartens and schools in country South Australia three times a term which she finds very rewarding.

She shares she has enjoyed learning more about speech, language and literacy development.

“My job allows me to see a child/student develop their voice and as a result, their personalities shine or that they can read more and understand their homework. This is why I go to work every day.”

She explains “I knew I wanted to work in the health and wellbeing industry, but it took me a while to find Speech Pathology. Some of the other areas I was looking into were nursing or midwifery.”

Mia says “the staff at Nazareth guided my learning but also encouraged me to become independent with my learning. After graduating high school, I felt excited but extremely nervous. A lot of the skills I developed in high school were transitional to the next stage of my life.”

Mia’s future career goals are to become a school-based Speech Pathologist and educate university students on placement. She also hopes to continue travelling after recently returning from an overseas trip.

The advice Mia would give the current and future Year 12 students is to “surround yourself with supportive people who you know you can go to with anything.”