Emily Goode

Before choosing to study, I worked in retail management until I lost my job due to a company downturn. I found myself a participant at an employment agency and waiting on a Centrelink payment to help me get through. I was lucky enough to have encountered the manager who saw potential in me and recommended I apply for a job. Next thing I know I’m starting my career in human services. I loved it and that is what sparked my passion for Social Work. 

I chose to study at CQU because my mum completed her Bachelor of Education when I was a child and remember going to the Mackay Ooralea campus with her while she studied. I was accepted into the CQU Social Work program and so was working in the industry throughout my studies. I gained on the job experience and was able to connect my theoretical learnings to the work in the field. 

I work closely with people receiving a Centrelink payment and assist them to work through vocational and non-vocational barriers. It’s such a diverse cohort of participants who experience a range of intersecting disadvantages such as homelessness, addiction, mental health challenges, domestic violence and physical challenges. Working in the field throughout my degree gave me the opportunity to not only put my learning into play, but it helped me grow personally and professionally. Post graduation I secured a role in Allied Health within the Workforce Australia contract.