Sharon Grubb is an inspirational woman whose story reminds you that in life; ‘if you can dream it you can do it’, no matter how daunting or difficult the task might seem.

Sharon left school halfway through year 11 to become a hairdresser before marrying the man of her dreams and having 3 beautiful children. Sharon had it all but after her first pre-school experiences with her eldest; Sharon felt a strong desire to become a teacher.

She progressed through the STEPS program at CQU Mackay and last Saturday graduated with a Bachelor of Learning Management and the prestigious Mackay Campus medal.

The medal is awarded to an undergraduate student who has demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and who has made a significant contribution to the University community.

Sharon’s journey at University has been a roller coaster and made her a different woman today.

“When I first started I didn’t really have much confidence in myself but then I started to enjoy learning and the more I learnt, the more I wanted to learn,” said Sharon.

Sharon attributes her success greatly to the support, friendship and love that her family and friends gave her right throughout her time at CQU.

“I’d never touched a computer before and often thought who am I kidding doing this,” says Sharon “but through the network of friends I developed at STEPS and then at Uni, and my family believing in me, here I am now, living my dream of working as a prep teacher at a great school".

Sharon believes her experience has been life-changing, not just for her, but her family also.

“I’ve even had a chance to show my kids the example of how studying hard actually gets you good marks!” says Sharon.

So, parting advice, wisdom, inspiration from Sharon ... “Go for it!” says Sharon with infectious enthusiasm, “Don’t be scared and never think you’re too old".

Photo Above : Sharon Grubb, recipient of the CQU Mackay Campus Medal at her graduation on the weekend.