About the event
Join us for a practical session designed to support nursing students and early-career nurses with strategies for standing out in job applications, including resume writing and responding to selection criteria.
Session 1: Expert Guidance from Marissa Jacques - Hosted by Marissa Jacques, Director of My Dream Job Careers Consulting and an ACN affiliate, this session draws on over 13 years of experience in writing nursing job applications. Marissa specialises in career support for nurses at all stages, from new graduates to advanced practice, and is known for her workshops, podcast, and passion for helping nurses secure their dream roles.
Session 2: Real Experiences from Emerging Nurse Leaders - The second half of the evening will feature Emerging Nurse Leaders Amy Mackenzie and Sophie Luo, both 2025 new graduates, who will share their firsthand experiences navigating the the workforce, and reflect on how the ENL program has equipped them with confidence, insight, and practical tools to succeed.
Q and A & Networking - The evening will conclude with a Q&A and an opportunity to network.
Key Learning Objectives
- Gain insights into effective strategies for job applications
- Explore diverse career trajectories within nursing, learning about various specialisations, advanced practice roles, and opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Develop skills and knowledge necessary for emerging nurse leaders, to inspire and empower others within the nursing
About the speakers
Marissa Jacques - Director at My Dream Job Careers Consulting

Marissa Jacques is a Bronze Affiliate member of the Australian College of Nursing, specialising in the preparation of professional resumes, cover letters, government selection criteria, as well as interview and career coaching for a diverse client base. With a Bachelor of Business (Human Resource Management), Graduate Diploma of Psychology, and Postgraduate Diploma of Psychology, Marissa is a qualified and experienced HR professional. She is an avid supporter of nurses and the values of the College.
Sophie Luo - New Graduate Nurse, Sydney Children’s Hospital Randwick

My name is Sophie, and I’m a new graduate nurse at a paediatric hospital in NSW. I am passionate about paediatric and critical care nursing, and my goal is to become an Emergency Nurse Practitioner. In this role, I aim to mentor future nurses, advocate for the profession, and contribute to high-quality patient care in our communities. As a dedicated advocate for the nursing profession, I have served as a nursing student representative as well as a member on the faculty board at the University of Technology Sydney. I actively promote nursing through various initiatives, including running workshops and information sessions for high school students interested in healthcare. I am also an Emerging Nurse Leader who is dedicated to advancing my clinical expertise and leadership skills.
Amy Mackenzie - New Graduate Nurse, Nepean Hospital

Amy graduated with a Bachelor of Nursing with Distinction from Western Sydney University in 2024. She is currently completing her New Graduate program at Nepean Hospital in Outer Western Sydney with a focus on surgical nursing. Amy is passionate about the nursing profession and using evidence-based, patient-centered, holistic practice to care compassionately for clients and their families and carers. Amy has a long history as an active member of her local community as a small business owner and volunteer. She has frequently served in leadership positions in various community organisations and is proud to continue serving in those positions throughout this year.