UOW College became the turning point Sarah needed to pursue her dreams.
Sarah left school at just 15, with good grades and a thirst for knowledge; all she needed was the right path. However, without an ATAR or Higher School Certificate, Sarah wasn’t sure where to go next. Sarah’s journey led her to UOW College.
UOW College was able to meet Sarah’s needs as well as support her passions. Sarah has always had an interest in both medicine and helping people; becoming a neurosurgeon truly encapsulates this passion. However, Sarah was confronted with her interests in a way she hadn’t expected. This only solidified her decision.
“I always had an interest in [neurosurgery], but just before I started my studies my cousin had a massive brain bleed and tumour, and the only reason that he's still alive is because of the brain surgeon. That just kind of cemented me wanting to pursue it,” Sarah says.
A Diploma of Medical and Health Science allows Sarah a direct pathway into the second year of a Bachelor of Medical and Health Science, where she will continue her journey to become a neurosurgeon.
UOW College supports Sarah’s goals
The UOW College’s supportive environment has been essential to Sarah’s success so far. Her tutors and Peer Learning Leaders have been a key part of her journey.
“I think the basis of all learning is the teachers because you can throw out a syllabus and give it to everyone, but people underestimate how much harder learning would be without having someone there to communicate it to you.”
Sarah’s teachers and Peer Learning Leaders passion mirrors her own, making her studies interesting and inspiring.
“It makes you feel more inspired and more interested in learning. When you've got [a teacher] that knows what they're talking about, it just makes everything so much easier.”
Supports outside of the classroom made Sarah’s transition to UOW College even easier.
“The only challenge was obviously the new environment, coming from Western Sydney, coming to a new place, new people, new topics. It's a lot. It can be very overwhelming.”
“But then it's those supports. The after-class things that kind of bring it all back, so I don't think I've had many challenges,” Sarah says.
The Peer Learning Leaders in class have also provided important help in Sarah’s studies.
“In class, I'm always asking a lot of questions, and you know you always get a bit worried about asking the teacher but when it's someone that you that you can kind of relate to more, it’s easier,” Sarah says.
Passion and safety at UOW College
After years of struggling with anxiety, Sarah has found a safe haven at UOW College.
“I haven't had an anxiety attack in over a year and a half, and I've had major life events happen. But it still isn't as bad, because having the support here [at UOW College] they're very understanding,” Sarah shares.
Inspired by her studies and teachers, Sarah’s future at university no longer daunts her, but excites her.
“I see better results here than I did in high school, and I think it's because I'm directing my own learning. You know, it's all up to me, and when I can do that, I thrive!”.
Learn more about pathway programs at UOW College