While many parents encourage their sons and daughters to explore the challenge of university, it's not very often that they also join in that challenge.

John Viall and daughter Nicole were both among the 82 students who participated in CQUniversity Bundaberg's Skills for Tertiary Entrance Preparatory Studies (STEPS) program completion ceremony recently (October).

John and Nicole Viall supported each other through STEPS

STEPS has been successful for many years in helping students without recent senior high school experience progress into university.

"I came to STEPS because I wanted more out of life and have been unsuccessful in finding a steady job," Nicole said. "Going to STEPS with dad was a great experience because we had each other's support".

Despite the great accomplishment, the experience was not without its pressures.

"Even though STEPS was confusing, frustrating and challenging at times, the support from lecturers and fellow students was always there every step of the way," Nicole said.

STEPS gives participants the confidence, skills and attitudes required for success in a tertiary education environment.

Next year, Nicole plans to undertake a Bachelor of Science degree and John plans to start a Bachelor of Environmental Science degree.