The fact that CQUniversity's Rockhampton Campus sits on traditional Darumbal country is a bonus for Bachelor of Business (Tourism) student Charlene Mann, who has both Aboriginal and South Sea Islander backgrounds.

"It is an honour to learn and study in my traditional country," she says.

Charlene Mann

Until recently, Charlene was living and working in Brisbane and was reluctant to return to study.

"Years passed by and I realised I was only going to be at the same level until I got motivated," she said.

"After much thought and encouragement from family, friends, strangers and staff from the Office of Indigenous Engagement at CQUniversity, I enrolled in the enabling program known as TEP (the Tertiary Entry Program) so I could have the confidence, knowledge and understanding necessary to succeed in my degree.

"With the help of TEP I enjoyed learning again and experiences including Creative Writing, Introduction to Applied Sciences, and Indigenous Australians and Politics gave me the confidence I needed to continue into undergraduate studies.

"I completed my first term of TEP via distance from Brisbane and then the second term back in Rockhampton. I relocated so I could attend university once I successfully completed TEP."

Now back in Rockhampton, Charlene has the support of other family members involved in higher education. She has also gained scholarship support to purchase study materials and ITAS (Indigenous Tutorial Assistance Scheme) support for assignment preparation.

"I know for certain, if I did not attend TEP my first year at university may not have been so successful," she says.

"I am currently enrolled in a Bachelor of Business (Majoring in Tourism) and I am striving to be in a managerial position in the tourism industry, either in the Rockhampton region or wherever my skills and knowledge will allow me to be in the future."