What made you want to be a Podiatrist?
During high school I always had a keen interest in the health sector. Playing competitive netball and basketball meant that I often spent time on the sidelines with injuries and that resulted in visits to see podiatrists and physios to help get me back out playing again. I was lucky enough to spend time with a local Podiatrist for work experience during year 10. It was during that time where I had the opportunity to see how diverse the cliental and the scope of practice was for a Podiatrist throughout their workday. As the saying goes, I was sold on Podiatry and haven’t looked back since.
Where did you study to become a Podiatrist?
I studied my podiatry degree at La Trobe University in Bundoora. I completed my double degree of a Bachelor of Applied Science and Masters of Podiatric Practice over a four-year period. I loved the fact that we spent the first two years of our classes learning alongside other allied health students who encouraged us to gain understanding of other professions in the sector.
We had a purpose-built clinic at the university which allowed us to start treating clients, with supervision from graduates, through our third and final years of study. This allowed us to grow our skills enormously prior to placements and gave us that confidence and experience prior to finishing our degrees and entering the workforce.
How did you find your way to working in Colac?
After finishing my university studies in Melbourne, I made the move to Shepperton in Northern Victoria. I spent more than four years working in a private practice. My partner Aydin and I have made the move back to the Geelong area after six months of travel in India and Europe/UK. I grew up Gellibrand, just outside of Colac, while my partner Aydin’s family is down near Peterborough on the Great Ocean Road and we are excited to be closer to our families. Having grown up and spent a large portion of my youth in Colac, it’s great to be back in the area and servicing the community that I grew up in.
What’s the best thing about being a Podiatrist?
I love the fact that coming in to work most days you know that you are making a real difference in the lives of clients who walk through the door. I love having a yarn and building relationships with my clients and ensuring they have the best possible experience and outcomes.
If you would like to make an appointment to see Bess in Colac or Highton please book online here, or call 5290 5238 to arrange a time.
