Knowledge is power and Kadina Memorial School, Year 12, student Grace Weatherspoon is leading the way for young adults as she aspires to become a nurse in the face of a family tragedy. 

Grace has done her research project about the dangers of meningococcal disease for teenagers, inspired by her sister Paige, who died from the disease when she was a toddler. 

“My family history sparked my initial interest in the medical field,” Grace said. 

“It’s a part of my life and I can’t change that, but it definitely inspired me to expand my knowledge and my desire to help others. “My research project focused on the lack of knowledge teenagers have regarding meningococcal disease and how they can become more aware of the symptoms.” 

Grace said she wanted to keep other young people informed. 

“I want to get the word out from a younger perspective, whether that be hosting information sessions or creating an app,” she said. 

Grace’s goal to become a nurse has never altered throughout her schooling and she has consciously selected subjects to achieve her dream. 

“I currently study General Mathematics, Child Studies, English, and Biology,” she said. 

“I had a rough idea of what subjects I needed to get into nursing but SACE online was so helpful, clear and easily accessible which made the process even simpler.”

Grace also completed vocational education and training courses in years 10 and 11 which took the pressure off her Year 12 studies. 

“I completed a Certificate I in Hospitality and Australian Business Week,” she said. 

“The flexibility of being able to take those courses throughout school and have them as a backup was a bonus.” 

When Grace hears the word SACE she gets excited thinking about her future pathway and what she wants to do with her life. 

“I’m hoping to get into the University of South Australia to study as a registered nurse before further study to become a midwife,” she said. 

“Life is so precious and I want to be the one to bring miracles into this world.”