Gladstone locals are being reminded that it is not too late to apply for a spot in CQU’s STEPS program.

Liz Cockerill, a 2005 STEPS graduate, said she highly recommended the program that has opened the door for her to begin studying for her Bachelor of Business in March this year.

Liz Cockerill admits to being a little nervous about starting university in March but says the confidence she gained from completing Central Queensland University’s STEPS program last year makes her certain she’ll succeed.

STEPS is a pre-university preparatory program that aims to give learners the skills and qualifications necessary for tertiary study.

Like many STEPS applicants, Liz Cockerill’s decision to study was brought about by an unexpected change in circumstances.

“In June last year the company with whom I’d be working for shut down. I’d been working with them for 9 years and had worked my way up to a management role but at the same time I had no formal qualifications.

“I wasn’t really sure what I was going to do but a number of family and friends recommended STEPS to me and after looking into it I enrolled and began studying in July".

Liz said that returning to study after a long time had been quite daunting but with the help and support of STEPS staff and fellow classmates she graduated and has been offered a place to study a Bachelor of Business with CQU Gladstone.

“I’m really looking forward to it. I am nervous, but whenever I have doubts I think back to STEPS and the confidence the program and staff gave me and I know I can do it,” said Liz.

STEPS is a program free of tuition or textbook charges and some students may be eligible for government assistance.

Anyone interested in studying STEPS in 2006 can still apply by contacting Lynne Campbell at CQU on 4970 7308 or visiting the campus at the Gladstone marina.