Year 12 student Eden Carey feels she already has a head start on her future thanks to the START QUT scholarship program, which afforded her the opportunity to study a university subject during Semester 2 of Year 11.
Eden said the experience of attending university lectures and workshops on campus opened her eyes to the university lifestyle and gave her the chance to learn about the differences between high school and university.
“I studied ‘Introduction to Engineering Mathematics’ and found that attending lectures and classes on campus allowed me to really immerse myself in the university lifestyle and become part of the student community.
“What I really got out of the experience though was not only confirmation that I want to study engineering, but it has helped me to prepare for the transition to university by giving me an understanding of the workload, how assessments are undertaken, and the independence required to manage my university studies,” Eden said.
Eden has always had an interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) and is most motivated by the chance to design and modify the computer and software systems that power every aspect of our modern lives.
She hopes to study a Bachelor of Engineering (Computer and Software Systems) combined with a Bachelor of Business (International Business) next year. By studying a double degree, she plans to fulfill her aim to study and work overseas in the future.
Eden says her fascination with software engineering has been nurtured through studying a broad range of subjects at St Margaret’s, including a dedicated STEM subject in Years 9 and 10 as well as Digital Technologies.
“I’ve had lots of practical, hands-on experiences and the chance to experiment with coding and Arduino. Working with other students on group projects really helped me to develop my teamwork and problem-solving skills, too,” she said.
Now that Eden has completed one unit of study at university, she will receive credit towards her bachelor’s degree.
Head of Faculty – Student Pathways and Futures Kelly Alford said participating in the program was an invaluable opportunity for students to identify the necessary skills they require to thrive at university.
“The program places the students in a position to make informed decisions about their future study and career options”.