Caitlin Goding is a former elite swimmer who's now ready to dive into the world of paramedicine. Currently studying at Monash University's Frankston campus, this Somerville resident chats to Frankly Frankston about her passion for helping the community.

Where did your interest in health and paramedicine begin?

I didn’t always have my heart set on paramedicine but knew that helping others and being a part of a community that looked out for others was something I wanted to do. I think I learnt this from my mother, who is a social worker, and I always saw how fulfilling her job is. Plus, I’ve always loved learning and discovering new things, and in school I was most interested in science-based subjects, especially biology.

What have you found to be the most challenging part of your studies?

That no matter how much study and hard work you put into the degree, nothing can fully prepare you for the things you will see and will have to deal with while on the road. It both terrifies and excites but it's what attracted me to the job.

What are you most excited about in the field?

I’m probably most excited about feeling as though I'm giving someone a small positive experience on possibly one of the worst days of their life.

Why do you love where you live and how does it inspire your work?

I have always been attracted to a healthy, active lifestyle and living on the Mornington Peninsula I am extremely fortunate to have an amazing backyard of beaches, parks and walking tracks. I think growing up going camping with my family or spending days at the beach with friends has really made me appreciate the outdoors and the privileges that we have here in Australia. I think this has influenced me to become a paramedic as I would rather have a job that allows me to be outdoors instead of sitting in an office all day. I also love travel and paramedics are needed all over the world, so I'll be able to travel and work at the same time.