New mum balances study and parenting to pursue a career in phlebotomy

After receiving exemplary care during the birth of her first child at Mater Mothers’ Hospital, Mikayla Northey-Crawford plans to give back through a healthcare career of her own. The former stay-at-home-mum is taking the first step by gaining a Certificate III in Pathology Collection from Mater Education. 

After the birth of her first son Hudson in 2023, Mikayla sought a career in pathology to complement her busy life as a new mum. 

“After the care we received when I had my son at Mater Mothers’, I realised I would love to have that impact on other individuals and their families.” 

“I saw pathology collection as an opportunity to get my foot in the door in the healthcare industry, while also being manageable with my family commitments.” 

One of nine siblings, the 25-year-old saw the healthcare workers in her family as a key influence in her pursuit of a healthcare career. 

“My mum, Charmaine, is a midwife at Mater Mothers’ Hospital in Brisbane, and my aunty is also studying to become a midwife. So, there has been lots of support at home with study and learning all about the healthcare industry” Mikayla said. 

“It's been great to fall back on them when I get stuck in quizzes and assessments, even just questions about what it's like to work in a hospital.” 

“I feel like I have a bit of a leg up on what to expect when I enter the workforce.” 

Despite initially nervous about returning to study for the first time since high school, Mikayla found the Certificate III in Pathology Collection to be a welcome break from her role as a mother and offered an opportunity to prioritise herself. 

“I found the three days a week study load of the pathology course has been a good balance. I enjoy switching off from mum mode, coming in, and learning something new.” 

“I’ve found it manageable and haven’t felt too stressed about my studies.” 

Mikayla has been incredibly grateful for the “awesome support” she has received at Mater Education as part of the inaugural Certificate III in Pathology Collection cohort to study at Mater Health Hub, Springfield.  

“Everyone at Mater Education has been friendly, welcoming, and flexible during my studies.” 

After completing her placement at Sullivan Nicolaides Pathology in Capalaba, Mikayla has accepted a role at the clinic and is now working in the community as a qualified phlebotomist. 

“I find myself happy to see where a career in phlebotomy takes me. If one day this doesn't suit me anymore, I can continue my studies in say, nursing.” 

“I'm pleasantly surprised that I feel comfortable with my training and going into this career feeling happy and accomplished.” 

Mikayla recommends a Certificate III in Pathology Collection to anyone looking for a stepping stone into a healthcare career that is easily balanced with life’s other commitments. 

“If you're a people person and you want to step into the healthcare industry but don't want to commit to a four-year university degree, I think this is a great first port of call to get an idea of what it's like to work with patients and medical equipment and working in a clinical team, but with a short study load.” 

“It’s not as a gruesome or as gory as people think! It’s about looking after different people every day.” 

You can learn more about our Certificate III in Pathology collection here