Student stories
Pratik's helping hand
Born in Nepal and later moving to Darwin, Pratik has always had a passion for working with people.
From a fast-food chain, accounting and security, his dream eventually became a reality when he took on a support worker role in residential rehabilitation after completing his first year of a social work degree.
Pratik, has eventually gone on to work as a community youth justice officer for the Northern Territory Government Department of Territory Families, housing and Communitis (TFHC). Pratik works with the youth outreach and re-engagement team in Darwin.
My team is a bunch of passionate people who promote positive choices in life, enable families and children to get help with their concerns and become a better version of themselves
A helping hand
Pratik was fortunate enough to receive a work integrated learning scholarship funded by the TFHC, a pathway that provided a stream for Pratik to further is knowledge while working.
“When I found out that I was selected as a recipient of the scholarship from the Department of Territory Families, Housing and Communities for my Bachelor of Social Work, it brought so much happiness that I cried a little out of joy,” Pratik said.
I called my parents in Nepal immediately and shared this news, they were very proud and happy… this was and will always be one of the memorable moments of my life
As part of the scholarship requirements, Pratik undertook paid vacation work with the Department during his semester breaks. Pratik also completed two stints of 500 hours of unpaid social work within different areas of the Department.
He completed his first placement at the Don Dale Youth Detention Centre with the Case Coordination team and his second placement with the Youth Outreach Re-Engagement Team where he is currently employed.
A number of scholarships are available to CDU students.
Helping the youth of today for a brighter tomorrow
Pratik's career goal is to work with children and families to help provide a brighter future.
"My career aspiration is enabling children and families to stay out of the statutory youth justice and child protection system"
Chase your passion for helping others with a degree in community services and social work at CDU
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