More than 170 students from eight local high schools attended CQU Experience at Bundaberg campus last week.

Students from Bundaberg Christian College, Bundaberg State High, Gin Gin State High, Isis State High, Kepnock High School, Shalom College, St Luke’s School and Rosedale High School spent four hours experiencing life at university.

CQU Bundaberg Head of Campus Alex Grady said the day was a great chance for potential university students to get a glimpse of what lay ahead.

“We appreciate high schools students moving into their final year are probably facing some of the most difficult choices and decisions they have ever had to make.

"Choosing to attend university is not an easy choice. It means years of hard work and financial hardship, but we believe the rewards are worth it,” Professor Grady said.

“These life-changing decisions can be a daunting prospect for many high school students. Once they have indeed made the decision to go on to further education there are more decisions such as which university or course will suit them.

“For this reason CQU Bundaberg instigated the CQU Experience. Not only did the students find out about what programs we offer here, but they also had the chance to talk to current students, staff and support services and left more informed about university life.

During their visit the students had the opportunity to gain an overall insight into university life and how it differs from school. They also had a tour of the campus by a CQU student mentor and looked at the facilities, meet with course advisors and faculty staff and took part in a choice of two lectures.