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We are the only emergency ambulance service in greater Wellington and the Wairarapa, and the only ones in the country who are free.
We are the only emergency ambulance service in greater Wellington and the Wairarapa, and the only ones in the country who are free.
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Introducing New Graduate Paramedic, Elle
Introducing New Graduate Paramedic, Elle
09 June 2022
Introducing New Graduate Paramedic, Elle
Elle Coker graduated as a paramedic in February 2022. Here, she reflects on her journey so far and tells us what led her to working at Wellington Free Ambulance.
Four years ago, Elle needed to call for an ambulance when her neighbour had an accident. Her organised and caring reactions were so natural that her parents asked her if she had ever thought about pursuing Paramedicine as a career. That was a life-changing moment for Elle. "I knew this was what I wanted to do and I've never looked back,” she says.
Elle felt a little nervous leaving her home town of Tauranga to study Paramedicine at Whitireia, but settled in fast. “The course was great, I met some amazing new friends and the tutors were always so supportive and caring. On my placement shifts I always felt supported by the Wellington Free staff, and I knew this was where I wanted to work.“
“It felt amazing when I qualified and was offered a job at Wellington Free Ambulance,” says Elle. “I knew that now I could put forward everything I learnt in my degree into this new role and grow both as a person and as a health professional. “
Elle has found being on the road extremely fulfilling. “Making a positive difference in people's lives has been so rewarding. You also learn so many new things every day, which can be overwhelming sometimes, but I love the learning aspect of the job!”
Since starting her role with Wellington Free, Elle has constantly drawn on the caring and organisational skills which her parents remarked on four years ago. She has also developed great resilience and determination.
Having a fantastic team to work with has been an important part of Elle’s time at Wellington Free Ambulance. “Everyone on my team is super friendly and they are always happy to help teach and answer any questions I have.”
Elle works with a preceptor (a mentor), Extended Care Paramedic Tim Roberts. “Tim has been awesome and made starting this job very enjoyable and less scary. He has a huge amount of experience and I’ve learnt a lot from him.“
To anyone considering a career in paramedicine, Elle says “Do it! If it’s something you are passionate about, it’s so worth getting into and very rewarding!”
“I'm so proud to work as a paramedic for Wellington Free Ambulance and be a part of an incredible free service where I can give back to the community and meet new people every day,” says Elle.
If you are interested in pursuing a career in Paramedicine, click here for more information .