Diploma ignites passion for first in family communication student
Cryste Degollacion studied for a Diploma in Communication at Western Sydney University’s pathway provider The College because it gave her the opportunity and flexibility to explore her passion.
The first in her family to complete a university degree, she was never pressured into further study but as the eldest of her siblings and cousins, wanted to be a role model highlighting how transformative further education could be when given the opportunity to access it.
“What motivated me the most to study at The College was the reassurance that I would receive a diploma after my first year and have the freedom to be flexible with my future goals,” she said.
The Western Sydney resident believes the opportunities The College provide are so important as they open up doors to the professional world at a level that anyone can understand and engage with.
Having enjoyed the diploma program so much and keen to pursue a career as a communications and marketing specialist, Cryste took advantage of guaranteed entry into the second year of the Bachelor of Communication at Western Sydney University.
Alongside her studies, she is working to support other students as they navigate their own journey through her engagement roles at the University.
“I’m passionate because I care. Through my work at Western Success and my current role as a Student Activities Assistant, I have met so many students and heard about their personal life stories and study journey. It is so inspiring to see how much you can achieve when you try your best and have a great support system around you.”
Cryste said it has been a heart-warming experience to see her own journey with Western Sydney University come full circle.
“My experience at The College was so much fun. Although I only got to experience campus life for a limited time due to the pandemic, the teaching staff were so welcoming and helpful. Even after transitioning to online study, the lecturers for my classes were beyond supportive and encouraging,” she said.
“From being a student at The College to now working there as a Student Activities Assistant in the field of my degree, creating events and making connections with students to make their campus life better and more fulfilling, is rewarding.”
Cryste said she would recommend The College to anyone, particularly those who might be feeling unsure or ‘on the fence’ about further education.
“The transition to the Bachelor was seamless and I felt so confident about my studies, particularly because the lecturers from The College had helped me prepare for everything that I needed to know when transitioning over to the University.”
Her advice to fellow students, and her siblings and cousins, is to “make the most of everything you do and put yourself out there. Hard work pays off”.
To find out more about Diplomas offered through Western Sydney University’s The College, including how to apply, visit this web page (opens in a new window).
ENDS
11 April 2023
Ali Sardyga, Senior Media Officer
Photo credit: Sally Tsoutas
Latest News
ABC RN transcript: Vice-Chancellor Professor George Williams discusses higher education sector, student support, and the impact of AI
The following is a transcript of an interview that aired on ABC Radio National Saturday Extra between presenter, Nick Bryant and Vice-Chancellor, Distinguished Professor George Williams AO.
Western Sydney University are the number one Australian solar car team at the 2025 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge
Western Sydney Solar Car team has crossed the finish line placing preliminarily sixth in the world overall, and the number one Australian team in the world’s most prestigious solar car challenge.
Western Sydney University Statement on Cyber Incidents
Western Sydney University has issued an update to its community following confirmation that previously stolen personal information was published online, including on the dark web.