Hit the ground running with a mid-year start
Approaching the end of her Bachelor of Communication (Dean’s Scholars), Ellie Winter, decided she wanted to further her career and education prospects.
“I have so many career and educational goals, I am not sure one lifetime is enough to achieve them all,” said Ellie.
Choosing not to hesitate and let time pass her by, it was in Ellie’s final semester when she decided to take the leap and apply for the Bachelor of Creative Leadership during the mid-year entry, allowing her to dive right in.
Ellie discovered the course through The Academy, Western’s innovative leadership program focused on global citizenship, critical thinking, and community impact.
“I was at a point in my education where I wanted to develop an expertise, refine my critical thinking, and start developing professional skills that I could take either into research or a career path.”
“I knew that if I didn't apply, I would spend the next year regretting that I wasn't graduating at the end of it.”
Understanding the unique challenges that come with being a university student, Ellie recommends those commencing university mid-year lean into the available support.
“My experience studying the Bachelor of Creative Leadership has been an extremely accessible and rewarding challenge. I have been able to incorporate this degree into my life whilst advancing my career and developing professionally in my industry.”
“The unique structure and flexibility of the Bachelor of Creative Leadership run through the Academy has been incredibly helpful in my professional development.
“The university places a strong emphasis on accessibility and sustainability, which are two of the most important values I seek in educational institutions.
“It is evident that the teachers and staff at Western embody these values in the care and passion they have provided me when I've needed some extra support.”
Now nearing the end of her degree, Ellie is excited by the future career prospects that await and is considering further study with a Master of Research and eventually a PhD.
“I would love to be a writer, so writing a book or academic journal article is a big goal. There are so many writing roles in the communications industry.”
ENDS
9 July 2024
Lauren Coskerie, Senior Media Officer
Photo credit: Sally Tsoutas
Balancing your unique career, life and study needs: student shares top five tips for a smooth transition into university life
Ellie Winter, knows firsthand what it is like to transition into uni life having navigated this journey herself over the past five years. Ellie is also aware that each student’s journey is unique and comes with its own challenges, and that those challenges extend to outside the classroom with health, finances and relationships also playing a big part in your studies and experience of university. Below Ellie shares her top five tips for making the most of this transition and where to find support and assistance for your own unique circumstances.
1. The University has considerations in place for those who may find themselves dealing with illness and extenuating circumstances throughout their studies. I highly suggest spending some time to learn more about these processes (opens in a new window), this way if you are in the middle or a crisis or need some immediate support, you know exactly who at the university can provide the best support.
2. When notified that a student has accessibility concerns the University’s disability and welfare teams (opens in a new window) can make amendments where possible and help you explore the most accessible options that you might not be aware of.
3. I highly recommend having conversations with your academic advisor. There is no question too silly, or small. It is always worth getting in touch when you have questions about the structure of your program, or the subjects that you need to undertake throughout your degree. They are always willing to help set you on the right track. By simply searching the name of your program in the handbook (opens in a new window) you will find your academic advisor's email address in the 'overview' tab.
4. Joining a student club (opens in a new window) is a great way to make the most of your time at university and really get a feel for ‘uni life’. We have a range of clubs for all types of interests, from the arts, gaming, sports and science.
5. Applying for a job at Western (opens in a new window) is a great way to earn money and connect with likeminded individuals. I have met so many wonderful students at the University, and the flexibility to study and work has been fantastic.
If you have any questions or want to find out more on the above services and initiatives, you can contact the Student Services Hub (opens in a new window).