Central Queensland University will hold information sessions in Nambour, Maroochydore, Narangba and Burpengary from March 12 for mature-aged women who would like to upgrade their qualifications.

Sessions are:.

Nambour - Monday March 12, Nambour Library, 10am to 11am. Contact: 5441 8332.

Maroochydore - Monday March 12, Maroochydore Library, 2.30pm to 3.30pm. Contact: 5475 8900.

Narangba - Wednesday March 14, Narangba Library, 6.30pm to 7.30pm. Contact: 3888 5366.

Burpengary - Thursday March 15, Burpengary Library, 10am to 11.30am. Contact: 3888 5366.

The sessions will provide details on CQU’s Women Into Science and Technology (WIST) program, a free, self-paced, study-at-home bridging program. WIST gives women the basic skills needed to apply for university entry and succeed in a career.

The program has provided over 3000 women with the opportunity for a career in non-traditional fields to date.

WIST is recognised by universities nation-wide as a pre-requisite course for undergraduate studies, provides students with access to TAFE and also has been used as preparation for employment tests.

For Lesley Wright, WIST gave her another chance of success.

“After failing algebra in high school, I was sure I would fail it again – however I was surprised to find that I could understand it, and it made sense. I was so thrilled when I passed the first module”.

Lesley’s advice has since been: “When trying something that you have previously failed, have an open mind and try not to let past failures close your mind”.

For more information or to book email wist@cqu.edu.au .

Caption: WIST graduate Lesley Wright.