MacKillop alumna finds purpose and passion in nursing

Since graduating from MacKillop Catholic College in 2013, Bianca Burgess has built a rewarding career dedicated to caring for others. Her journey from student to Nurse Unit Manager at Hobart Private Hospital has been shaped by compassion, commitment, and lifelong learning.

After completing her senior secondary studies at Guilford Young College, Bianca moved to Launceston to study a Bachelor of Nursing. Living on campus was a new adventure that helped her grow both personally and professionally.

“University life surprised me it was easier than I expected, probably because I was passionate about nursing and really dedicated myself to learning,” Bianca says.

During her degree, Bianca balanced two part-time jobs and made lifelong friends while immersing herself in university life. After graduating in 2018, she began working at Hobart Private Hospital, rotating through the Cardiac and Medical Palliative wards.

“I fell in love with the Medical Ward and have worked there ever since,” she says. “A few years later, I returned to university to complete a postgraduate degree in Acute Care, and I’ve now been the Nurse Unit Manager for the past three and a half years. I lead a team of over 25 staff and oversee a 30-bed unit. We work hard, but we also make time for fun with themed scrub days and special celebrations. I truly love what I do.”

Photo Caption: Nursing Team at Hobart Private Hospital

Nursing was not Bianca’s original plan. “I actually wanted to be a police officer when I was younger,” she says. “But when my Nan was admitted to hospital, everything changed. Being there for her made me realise how special and important nurses are. It was a turning point where I could suddenly picture myself in this profession.”

By the end of Year 11, Bianca wasn’t sure she would pass. She had planned to move interstate, but after caring for her Nan and encouraged by a close friend who was also applying for nursing she decided to apply at the last minute. “It turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life,” she says.

For Bianca, nursing is a career full of purpose. “No two days are ever the same,” she says. “You can work in palliative care, children’s health, cardiac units, or even move into teaching and management. There really is something for everyone.”

She says the most rewarding part is making a difference in people’s lives. “You are part of people’s stories during their most vulnerable moments. Being able to support them and help them through that is incredibly meaningful.”

Bianca holds fond memories of her time at MacKillop Catholic College, especially being part of the first group of students to visit East Timor. “It was a life-changing experience,” she says. “We taught students, built connections, and learned about the Timorese culture. It taught me the value of kindness, community, and cultural respect values I still carry with me in my nursing career.”

Photo Caption: Bianca spending time with children in East Timor

Looking back, Bianca encourages current students to enjoy the journey. “Don’t put too much pressure on yourself everything happens for a reason, and your path might look different from others, and that’s okay,” she says. “Study hard and take opportunities when they come, but also make sure you enjoy the fun moments at school and college.”

Photo Caption: Memories from the 2010 Year 7 Orientation Day

She also reminds students that success takes many forms. “Your ATAR score is not the be-all and end-all. If you don’t get the result you hoped for, there are still so many ways to reach your goals. There’s no one ‘right’ path just the one that’s right for you.”