A day in the life of an allied health student

Author: Kristy Porter

Photographer: All images used with permission.

Do you want to help others live their best lives? Connect with people, build relationships and really make a difference? Studying allied health could be for you. So, what does that look like day-to-day?

We asked Bachelor of Occupational Therapy student Kirsty Overton to describe an average day.

6.30 – 9am

“I wake up make a smoothie for breakfast and get ready to start the day. I make my way to uni on the bus or train, listening to music so that I’m in the right head space to concentrate on the course material presented.”

9 – 11am

“The day generally starts with a lecture, they can be one or two hours long depending on the unit of study. They are held in large theatres for all students enrolled in the course. The material is delivered by the lecturer and is the focus of the week, with our tutorials and practicals expanding on the content covered. The lecture is a combination of slides and videos, accessible on our student portal for review and study.”

11am – 2pm

“After the lecture, we attend the tutorial or practical in a class of around 25 students. The tutor expands on the lecture material and guides us through group work, tasks and activities to apply what we have learnt. Our tutorials can run for one to two hours as can the practicals. We have a 10-minute break between classes, to change rooms, have a snack or have some lunch. Depending on your timetable you may have an hour break or more between classes, to refresh and collect yourself before the next class.”

Kirsty Overton

2 – 3pm

“At 2pm, my classes end as I prefer a shorter day to help maintain concentration. Most of my days at uni follow a similar structure, although sometimes classes are held in the afternoon instead of the morning. Depending on the semester I will spend two or three days at uni per week.

After class I make my way home on public transport, listening to music again to switch off and rest before getting ready for work.”

3.30 – 6.30pm

“After some down time on the train and at home I go to my part-time job for a few hours in the evening after uni. I work half days, four times a week as it fits in around uni. This keeps a day or two free during the week for course work, preparatory activities, assignments and down time.”

7pm and onwards

“I go to the gym or walk my dog to keep me balanced, fit and healthy. After the gym I come home to make dinner, prepare my lunch and bag for the next day. I’ll read a book or watch Netflix to wind down for bed.

I have enjoyed the large number of practical hours incorporated in the course along with the academic work, enabling a rounded education. I have also loved the opportunity to study abroad, gaining valuable life experience and broadening my perspectives.

The structure of the course lets students get to know each other, creating a supportive environment. It also benefits us into the future as we are strengthening relationships to help facilitate collaborative approaches in the work force."

Interested in a study experience like Kirsty’s? Explore allied health at ACU.

Category Future student