Mackay's Amanda Bovero is among an increasingly large band of students who have succeeded with the help of STEPS*, the Skills for Tertiary Education Preparatory Studies program of CQUniversity.

Before enrolling in STEPS program, Amanda worked in administration in a number of industries.

"I went from job to job trying to find that challenging position but to no avail," she said.

Amanda Bovero

Amanda dreamed of being a nurse but with 3 small children her dream seemed impossible to achieve.

"It had been a long time since I picked up a book...I knew I would have to apply for a program that would give me the confidence to be able to study and write assignments."

Moving to Mackay spurred Amanda into exploring options for her study path. After successfully completing the STEPS program, she enrolled in the Bachelor of Nursing program.

When she completes her degree she hopes to obtain a hospital position before undertaking further studies in midwifery.

"I would definitely recommend the STEPS program to everyone.  The knowledge I have gained with this program has and will help me to further my studies. I have made friends from all different ages and cultures. It has taught me a lot about myself and that anything is possible when you put your mind to it."

STEPS admission tests will be held at CQUniversity's Mackay campus from 10am on Tuesday February 2.

* STEPS is a pre-university preparatory program that can help prepare potential applicants for tertiary study.  The program is offered free of tuition and textbook charges. Students may choose to pay a Student Association Fee. STEPS is a 13-week Accelerated or a 26-week Extended/ Flex/External program, designed to give adult learners the skills and confidence necessary to embark on tertiary study. The program covers academic communication, mathematics, computing, independent learning skills, study skills and library/information literacy skills. The great majority of students who have completed STEPS have pursued a tertiary education.