Forty-five STEPS students had reason to celebrate this week (October 8) at CQUniversity Mackay as they graced the stage for a celebration of completion ceremony.

Around 200 guests were present to support the success of their family and friends who successfully completed the Skills for Tertiary Education Preparatory Studies (STEPS) program during 2008.

LtoR: Katie Aitken and Kaisha Andrew who is also celebrating completion of STEPS

This program provides a pathway into university while at the same time giving students the confidence and skills considered necessary to a successful undergraduate study experience.

STEPS bridges the gap for those students who would not otherwise have had the pre-requisite skills and knowledge to be accepted to tertiary study.

One particular student involved was Katie Aitken, who took on the challenge of STEPS as an opportunity, not only to develop her future but also to develop a future for her son.

"As a child my family moved around and as a result I attended 15 schools up to grade 10.  It was then I decided to leave school without many prospects for the future," Katie said.

"It wasn't until I become a single mother at age 17; I then wanted to get into University to eventually become a nurse.  My 20-month-old son has been diagnosed with a mild genetic disorder and this inspired me to want to work with children and medicine.

"STEPS gave me the opportunity to achieve my goal.  Now that I have successfully completed STEPS I will be able to progress to nursing and then build on my degree by studying midwifery, paediatrics and neonatal care.

"The program has been an enlightening experience and I encourage anyone with an interest to give it a go."