Career
Copyright@ Australian Catholic University 1998-2025 | ABN 15 050 192 660 CRICOS registered provider: 00004G | PRV12008
Copyright@ Australian Catholic University 1998-2025 | ABN 15 050 192 660 CRICOS registered provider: 00004G | PRV12008
Growing up in Cambodia, Meantepy Hoeung dreamed she would be a superhero who could save lives and bring joy to people. Today, she has gone above and beyond that by becoming a nurse who worked on Australia’s frontline during the Covid-19 pandemic.
And now Meantepy is transitioning into a job that could help the rest of the world.
“I have always dreamed of working in a field where I can help save lives, bring happiness to individuals and their families and comfort those in need,” Meantepy said.
“Working in nursing has shown me the challenges that the health industry faces, especially during the recent global COVID-19 pandemic.
“Becoming a nurse was my childhood goal, but now becoming an epidemiologist is my lifetime passion. I believe becoming an epidemiologist will help address many important issues facing our world right now.
“Studying public health will also prepare me to become a healthcare professional who can make an impact and improve health on a global scale.”
Meantepy arrived in Australia in 2018 to study nursing and has quickly made significant contributions on local and global scales.
She was a personal care assistant and assistant nurse at Melbourne’s St Vincent's Hospital during the Covid pandemic, playing a crucial role in ensuring high quality patient care.
It was during this eye-opening experience where she became inspired to transfer from her nursing degree to a degree in public health at ACU.
Meantepy has also volunteered at LiverWELL, a non-profit organisation, where she is now the community educator, initiating important conversations about viral hepatitis within culturally diverse communities.
And if all these experiences haven’t been enough, she has also taken up a new role at The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, which houses the World Health Organisation (WHO) Collaborating Centre for Viral Hepatitis.
“I have started working at The Peter Doherty Institute as a hepatitis B system navigator,” she said.
“I am currently working on the LINC-B project – a pilot program that aims to maximise linkage to healthcare services for people diagnosed with hepatitis B and ensure they receive the information and care they need in a culturally appropriate and safe manner.
“With this role, I hope to help those people newly diagnosed with hepatitis B, especially overseas students, refugees or asylum seekers, to receive treatment or ensure that they are linked to care despite their Medicare status.”
In October 2023, Meantepy was named the Victorian International Student of the Year recipient in the Higher Education category for her efforts in the community.
Chris Riley, ACU’s Pro-Vice Chancellor (Global and Education Pathways), said she made an inspiring role model for other international students.
"Meantepy’s remarkable achievements and dedication to community service makes her an inspiring role model for current and future students looking to study in Australia," Mr Riley said.
"The Victorian International Education Awards' recognition of her contribution to their respective communities demonstrates the variety of opportunities Australia's higher education sector can offer international students."
Having turned her childhood dreams into reality, Meantepy encourages other international students to chase their own dreams.
“If you’re considering a career in public health, start by determining which area of public health you are interested in, and, of course, you need a degree related to public health,” Meantepy said.
“I recommend starting with internships, volunteer opportunities, or part-time positions in public health organisations or councils to gain practical experience. Build a network in the field by attending conferences and connecting with professionals.”
“I would encourage everyone to take the leap and pursue their educational dreams in Australia because this is the place where the possibilities for growth, success, and personal development are endless.”
Discover more about where a degree in public health can take you.
Copyright@ Australian Catholic University 1998-2025 | ABN 15 050 192 660 CRICOS registered provider: 00004G | PRV12008