The Past
Patsy
Littlejohn (née Sloane)
BSc 1953, MEd 1995
During my later years at secondary
school I concentrated on science subjects, and in 1950 commenced a Bachelor of
Science degree at the University of Western Australia. I graduated in 1953,
majoring in Zoology. I spent my full-time working career (before having
children) working as a clinical biochemist, first at Royal Perth Hospital,
then in Austin, Texas, and finally at St. Vincent’s Hospital, Melbourne. After
having my first child I commenced my academic career, working at the
University of Melbourne, demonstrating in First Year Biology, Human
Physiology, and Social Biology. During these years (1961-1972) I was able to
develop my knowledge and interest in human biology. When undertaking my
bachelors degree there was no Medical School at the University of Western
Australia and no opportunity to study human biology. The teaching experience
and knowledge that I gained through tutoring and demonstrating led to my
appointment as lecturer in Social Biology at the Preston Institute of
Technology in 1973, in the newly established Social Work School. I remained
there (now RMIT University) until 1993, when I retired. I then had an honorary
position at RMIT University until 2003.
During my years as a lecturer in
Social Biology I had the opportunity to develop some research interests. In
1982-1983 I undertook a project at the Centre for Human Bioethics, Monash
University, on ethical aspects of in vitro fertilisation. From 1983 onwards I
have been pursuing my research interests in pregnant and parenting young
women. In 1987 I commenced a five-year longitudinal study of pregnant
teenagers who kept their babies. This research, and other projects involved
with young women, led to my successful completion of a Master of Education at
the University of Melbourne in 1995. In retirement I am still pursuing these
research interests.
In 1955 I married Murray
Littlejohn, an academic scientist (Zoology). We have two children, born in
1960 and 1962. I have always taken an active interest in my husband’s research
and whenever possible have assisted him in his field work. I am an honorary
associate in the Department of Zoology, University of Melbourne, and currently
we are working on a project together. It was my husband’s job which brought us
to Melbourne, and through his work we have travelled overseas quite often,
living for periods of time in the United States and visiting other locations.
Latterly we were able to combine our professional interests when travelling
overseas.
In reviewing my life, I realise
that I did not expect to have a professional career in my own right. I had to
resign from permanent employment when I married, and it was most difficult to
work after one had children. There were very few crêches, and I was living
away from family support. I was most fortunate to have the opportunities to
develop my academic career, for it was during the period when our children
were young that I was able to do sessional tutoring and demonstrating at the
University of Melbourne. This contact enabled me to develop my scientific
interests, and facilitated my appointment as a lecturer. I was able to
progress academically without a higher degree - which would probably be
impossible these days. I did gain a Masters Degree, but only after I had
retired!!
I feel that my experiences clearly come from a different and past era. I have watched with interest the changes and opportunities now available to young women. My younger son’s partner is a full-time academic (science) and mother, and I have several young women friends who are pursuing their scientific careers. It is difficult for both partners to pursue careers when there are young children involved. Success of dual careers and parenting requires the dedicated commitment of both partners. Fortunately there are more community support services available to young people now.