• From PCA to MBA: Aleen is seizing her opportunities

    From PCA to MBA: Aleen is seizing her opportunities

    Grabbing opportunities with both hands, Aleen George began a student placement with Resthaven as a Personal Care Assistant (PCA) in early 2025 while completing her Certificate III in Individual Support.

    Her dedication and skills stood out, and she was hired into Resthaven’s relief pool as a PCA soon after. However, not one to rest on her achievements, Aleen has continued her studies while working and is now expanding her expertise with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Healthcare Management.

    As part of her MBA, she recently completed an internship at Resthaven’s Head Office and says that the experience has given her plenty to think about.

    ‘I studied topics such as safety, quality, and software, so to be able to experience these in the real world has been invaluable,’ Aleen says. ‘It’s also been hugely beneficial for me to be working as a PCA. I understand how things are for residents, and how changes at an administrative level can have huge impacts in real terms. It’s not an easy job [being a PCA], but it’s been such an important experience for me.’

    Aleen came to Australia in February 2024 on a Student Visa from India. Back home, she has worked in healthcare event planning, organising international galas and award nights for exceptional healthcare workers.

    ‘This work gave me an understanding of how the healthcare sector works, and made me interested in pursuing healthcare management,’ Aleen says. ‘Now, I’m looking for roles that can use my new skills, such as coordinating the day-to-day activities of a hospital, aged care home, or health facility.’

    Aleen is grateful for the support she has had from Resthaven, and in particular from Student Placement Program Facilitator, Sarah Forzisi (pictured above, with Aleen).

    ‘From the moment I got my placement with Resthaven, Sarah and the team have supported me,’ Aleen says. ‘It was a simple conversation with Sarah, where she encouraged me to put my name forward for the relief pool, which has led to my employment. I love working for Resthaven. Everyone is so kind and supportive.’

    With her MBA almost completed, Aleen is well placed to take the next steps in her career in healthcare. Congratulations on your success so far, Aleen!

    In addition to offering scholarships at the three Adelaide universities, Resthaven has partnerships in place with various training organisations. Students are encouraged to notify their training organisation if they wish to undertake a placement with Resthaven.