Celebrating our graduates – Cassandra Kennedy

Cassandra Kennedy’s time at RMIT was spent getting the most out of her student experience, including being an advocate of Women in STEM and participating in Careers Information forums.

Cassandra was studying a generalist degree at a Victorian university before deciding to transfer to RMIT to take advantage of the Work Integrated Learning on offer as part of her degree, the Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Laboratory Medicine).

We caught up with the graduate to chat about her passion for Laboratory Medicine and life after uni.

Q: How does it feel to be graduating?

A: I’m feeling very grateful for all the great lecturers in Laboratory Medicine at RMIT who helped me succeed. Their passion and knowledge will continue to inspire me as I begin my career in medical science.

Q: What made you decide to study this particular degree?

A: I decided to transfer into this degree from my previous Bachelor of Science degree as I wanted to ensure that I was studying a vocationally focused degree with a clear career pathway. I can honestly say that it is the best decision I have ever made!

Cassandra sits at a desk with an open book

Cassandra says the highlight of her degree has been undertaking a professional placement.

Q: What has been a highlight at RMIT?

A: The highlight of my degree has definitely been undertaking my professional placement at the Royal Melbourne Hospital. After spending years learning the theory of medical science, it was amazing to be able to apply my knowledge to real-world patient cases and see how vital medical diagnostics is to patient care.

Q: What are you excited about for life after university?

A: I’m excited to continue to learn about haematology and transfusion science in my new role as a medical scientist at St Vincent’s Hospital. While I am finishing my formal education, I know that there will always be more to learn in this field!

Q: What was the biggest challenge you faced while studying, and how did you overcome it?

Undertaking my professional placement during the age of COVID-19 brought a range of unique challenges, however, I was able to stay on track with the help of my lecturer. I found that the best thing to do was to concentrate on what was within my control and ask for help when I needed it.

Q: What advice do you have for young girls/women wanting to start a career in STEM?

A: I would say to be curious and always willing to learn. Medical science is a continually evolving field where technologies and scientific evidence are constantly changing, and scientists must be dedicated to becoming lifelong learners in their field.

Story by Ellen Singleton

23 November 2021

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Celebrating our graduates – Cassandra Kennedy