Julie Robson has turned her life around through the STEPS program at Central Queensland University (CQU) Mackay and it's landed her in a career she had long forgotten was her childhood dream.

Julie entered the STEPS program as she believed it was time to get a formal qualification in Accounting after years of working in accounts and book keeping.

Julie Robson at the CQU Mackay nursing labs will start her final year of nursing next year after realising she wanted to be a nurse.

Mid-way through STEPS, Julie's lecturer and CQU Mackay STEPS Co-ordinator Lyn Forbes-Smith asked Julie what she really wanted to do.  Since starting work, Julie had never really asked herself that question. 

"I'm of the generation where you left school and just starting working in book keeping or whatever it was and that was it -  you did it for many years without considering what you really wanted to do" said Julie.

"I remembered wanting to be a nurse when I was a kid and so Lyn introduced me to the nursing lecturers at CQU and before I knew it, I was enrolled in a degree I thought I'd never do.

"STEPS gave me the tools to not just attend University but to do it well and be successful. I understand how to research correctly and write assignments.  Even though it's hard work, I don't have to stress that I can't do it because I know I can," said Julie.

Julie believes that in this day and age, turning your life around at any stage isn't as hard as it seems.  She now works as a part-time nursing assistant as she completes her final year of study at CQU.

"Looking back, it wasn't difficult, it's just a matter of taking that first step and everything seems to fall into place after that," said Julie.

STEPS is now recruiting for the 2008 intake.  To gain entry into STEPS, applicants have basic Maths and English tests as well as an interview.

Those interested in applying for STEPS should phone Therese O'Donnell on 4150 7149.  The close date for the next round of applications is January 16.  Testing and interviews will take place on January 21.

STEPS Mackay will also be holding a barbecue and information day on Wednesday, November 28 at Noon.  RSVPs are essential so phone Lyn Forbes Smith on 4940 7827 if you would like to come along.  Bring a friend and see how STEPS can help you be what you want to be.