It may be an unusual career choice for a young man, but Carl Jensen set out with determination to become an early childhood teacher.

He may have only completed his studies at CQUniversity last year, but Carl is already in the classroom teaching prep at Gladstone Central State School.

BLM (Early Childhood) graduate Carl Jensen farewells 'Big Bird' in the Education teaching room at the Gladstone Campus."I chose education because I want to inspire a love of learning in future generations. Throughout my schooling I had many teachers who were passionate and creative in their pedagogy and influenced my move into education. I chose early childhood particularly as I felt I could promote this lifelong learning at an early age and influence a generation of students to be passionate about learning," Carl said.

The Bachelor of Learning Management graduate recently stood in front of his university peers and their families to deliver a speech during a Graduation Ceremony in Gladstone.

During his talk, Carl shared some of his experiences from his four years at CQUniversity and told his peers it had been "a time of opportunity".

"As a fresh high school graduate and a full-time student I had many opportunities while at CQUniversity. For three of my four years on campus I was a student mentor, including one year as a mentor leader. This gave me a chance to work with new students and develop leadership skills."

He also was chosen to participate in a Korean Teaching Exchange during his third year which enabled him to spend three weeks teaching physical education and immersing in the Korean culture.

"As an education student I appreciated the chance to view education from a different perspective. By talking to Korean students, my host family, local college students and Ulsan College employees I gained an insight into why education is highly regarded in Korean culture.

"It was a great experience I will never forget."