Tell us a bit about your background.
I gained a degree in commerce straight after high school as going to uni was 鈥榯he done thing鈥 in my family. But I never thought about what I聽actually聽wanted to do. I just chose a path that would lead to a good job.
What did you decide to study this time around?
I鈥檓 working towards my degree in Human Resources. I鈥檝e worked with Scouts since 2008, which is largely about leadership and mentoring people. I really enjoy helping people grow. Having this degree is a great way for me to do that with confidence.
How are you enjoying it so far?
I'm absolutely loving it. It鈥檚 a challenge fitting it because I also work 40 hours per week. But I鈥檓 able to study part time, and I鈥檓 motivated to make it work because I鈥檝e chosen something that matters to me.
What are you enjoying most about your program?
It's completely relevant to my world. I feel like every lecture I go to deals with problems I've just witnessed at work. I find myself coming up with all sorts of ideas about what could have been done. My manager really enjoys hearing about what I鈥檓 learning too!
And the student experience, how鈥檚 that?
The campus has changed a lot in 20 years. It feels like a much more inclusive environment now. UC has become a real community, where people are encouraged to express themselves and their ideas.
Were you daunted at the prospect of being a bit older than the students around you?
I had thought that as an adult I would feel completely off to the side, but it hasn't been like that at all. Group projects have been great for creating an inclusive experience. Everyone works together and values each other鈥檚 unique contribution. I feel very happy about my place in the class.
Do you have any advice for others thinking about studying later in life?
When I was 20, I got my degree and got a job and that was it. I stopped thinking about what else I might want to do. But the world kept moving and today there are so many more opportunities. I don't think the papers I'm doing now were even available back then. So keep asking yourself, 鈥渄o I want a change?鈥 and keep looking at what鈥檚 out there.
You鈥檝e followed your passion this time around. Why does that matter?
This experience has been one of self-fulfillment, in a field I hadn't even thought was a possibility for me. I鈥檓 also looking forward to where it might lead. Having the opportunity to inspire others and foster their growth is really special to me.
