Inaugural UniSQ Women’s Network scholar creates a new future in clinical psychology

University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) Master of Clinical Psychology student Kimberley Nagle is reshaping her career to meet a need she saw firsthand – the lack of psychological support for young people and families in complex school communities.

The former teacher is now in the final stages of her clinical training, juggling placements, postgraduate study and part-time work as a provisional psychologist – a demanding load made achievable through the support of the UniSQ Women’s Network Scholarship.

For Kimberley, the scholarship has removed real barriers: the financial pressure of unpaid internships and the strain of balancing bills, family needs and a mortgage.

As the inaugural recipient, she’s determined to carry that support forward, mentoring women beginning their careers in mental health and contributing to better outcomes for vulnerable communities.

She recently reflected on her journey with us.

Tell us about yourself – what are you studying and what brought you here?

I am currently studying a Master of Clinical Psychology at UniSQ and live in Brisbane with my family. I’m transitioning from a career as a teacher into the psychology field, having worked extensively in highly complex and diverse school communities. Over time, I saw a growing need for psychological support for young people and their families, which inspired me to pursue postgraduate clinical training. I’ve now completed my coursework and am midway through my third placement, with one more to go next year, while also working part time as a provisional psychologist in private practice.

You are the inaugural recipient of the UniSQ Women’s Network Scholarship – what does that mean to you?

It was an honour to receive the inaugural UniSQ Women’s Network Scholarship. For me, this scholarship reinforces the importance of women continuing their education and striving for leadership in their fields. Knowing that a network of women leaders believes in my goals is deeply encouraging and gives me confidence as I complete this final, demanding phase of my training.

If you could thank the members who made this scholarship possible, what would you say?

I would thank them for recognising the importance of supporting women pursuing advanced study, especially in areas like mental health where diverse clinicians are greatly needed. Their generosity eased the financial strain of clinical training and reminded me of the power and impact women can have when we uplift and invest in one another.

How has the scholarship made a difference to your studies?

Clinical internships and externships are essential but unpaid, and this scholarship eased the financial pressure associated with those requirements. In 2025, I travelled weekly from Brisbane to Toowoomba for placements, and the support helped cover some of my travel and accommodation costs. Being able to focus on developing my skills, rather than worrying about how to juggle expenses, family needs, and a mortgage, made a significant difference. Without this assistance, continuing my studies would have been far more challenging.

What are your aspirations and career goals for the future?

My goal is to build on the advocacy work I began in education by delivering accessible, effective mental health care to vulnerable populations. The scholarship allowed me to dedicate the time and energy needed to develop strong clinical skills, positioning me to contribute meaningfully to improved mental health outcomes in Queensland.

Why is the Women’s Network important at UniSQ?

The Women’s Network plays a vital role in fostering connection, support, and advocacy for women across the University. It provides opportunities for mentorship, professional development, and community building, helping women feel empowered and represented in academic and professional settings. Through scholarships like this, the Network actively removes barriers to education and advancement and ensures that diverse voices and experiences are supported and celebrated.

What advice would you give to other women thinking about applying?

I would encourage women to apply with confidence and share their personal story, goals, and passion for their field, along with the challenges they’re navigating. We often underestimate the value of our experiences, but these experiences shape the unique contributions we make. Scholarships like this exist because women deserve support, and you never know what impact your application might have unless you try.

Learn more about UniSQ’s scholarship opportunities.