Working as a hospital aide in a maternity home in Paraparaumu. It was 1968 and I was about 17. I remember buying a present for my mother and she told me I'd spent a third of my weekly wageon it. It was about $9 so I probably earned about $30. It wasn't about the money at the time.
How did you get your first job?
I wanted to go nursing; and my aunt, who was a nurse, advised me to get some experience and see if I liked it.
Did you enjoy it?
I worked with mothers and babies and this work became the love of my life. I applied at another hospital to start full-time training and was offered a position, so I stayed only eight months.
What did you learn?
I learned resilience. It wasn't an easy job but it was a satisfying place to be. I found out that I loved working with people.
What was your boss like?
My boss decided that if I was to be a nurse, I should know the reality of it. She mentored me, gave me opportunities to get experience that others didn't get because they weren't going into a nursing career. I often went back to her later in my career and talked to her.
Any advice for someone starting out?
Make the most of every opportunity that comes your way. You can be taught skills and knowledge but it's about a positive approach and giving things a go.
Is it harder for people entering the job market now?
I think it's just different. Once, you could walk up to a place and get a job.
