CQUniversity Australia
 

Engaging Indigenous people within Higher Ed

CQUniversity's Office of Indigenous Engagement recently hosted a visit from the Oodgeroo Unit of Queensland University of Technology (QUT), at Rockhampton Campus.

Professor Anita Lee Hong, Director of the Oodgeroo Unit, and Lone Pearce, Project Officer, met with Office of Indigenous Engagement staff to discuss employment issues and best practice models for engaging Indigenous people within the higher education sector, including governance matters.

Full Details…

Other News…

Melissa takes great steps towards bright future 

Published on 13 January, 2010 

After losing her husband 3 years ago, Melissa Novak knew she had a responsibility to her 2 children to be the best mum possible.

"I knew I had to be a really good role model for them and be able to support them financially," the Gladstone resident explains.

PhotoID:8234, Melissa Novak is presented with her certificate by Janette Davis at the STEPS graduation last year. Photo courtesy Stephen Mills Photographer.
Melissa Novak is presented with her certificate by Janette Davis at the STEPS graduation last year. Photo courtesy Stephen Mills Photographer.After working in administration for a while, she took heed of a strong calling into the field of nursing.

"I saw an ad for STEPS in the newspaper and applied and was accepted into the program," Melissa said.

STEPS (Skills for Tertiary Education Preparatory Studies) is a 13-week Accelerated or a 26-week Extended/Flex/External program, designed to instill in its adult learners the skills and confidence necessary to embark on tertiary study.

Free of charge*, STEPS covers academic communication, mathematics, computing, independent learning skills, study skills and library/information literacy skills.

First steps on ladder to success are free of charge

"Going back to study was a real eye opener ... everything from learning how to write an academic essay to algebraic equations ... it was the best learning experience," Melissa said.

"It really built my confidence."

After graduating from STEPS last year, Melissa enrolled in the Foundation Science program to increase her knowledge before embarking on a nursing program through TAFE.

"I want to be a hands-on nurse; therefore, being an enrolled nurse would be the better way to go."

After 18 months of studying Melissa will be working in hospitals.

"My children are very proud of what I have achieved. They were very supportive throughout my studies."

Proof that anything is possible, Melissa says the future looks really bright.

CQUniversity will hold an information session for people interested in enrolling in the STEPS program in 2010. An information and testing session is planned for Tuesday February 2 at 9.30am and 5:30pm in Gladstone. Interested people interested should contact Muriel Strahm on 4970 7327.

* STEPS is offered free of tuition and textbook charges.