Western Sydney University empowers high school students to achieve their potential
Director, Future Student Engagement at Western Sydney University, Sophie Partridge, and Acaemy U participant, Victor Qin
Western Sydney University is empowering high school students through a program that provides transformative learning experiences, laying the foundation for the leaders of tomorrow.
Collaborating with 15 western Sydney high schools, Academy U invites high-potential students to study a university-level subject ‘Leadership in Complexity’ whilst at school.
Participants also enjoy access to the University's world-class facilities, libraries, online learning modules, masterclasses, and events, providing a holistic experience of university life.
The program sees students develop the skills and capabilities to take action and affect positive change across the local and global communities.
Victor Qin, a former student of Penrith Selective High School, is one of the students who participated in Academy U during his senior years.
“These immersive opportunities allowed me to experience what university life is like for Western Sydney University students,” he said.
High-potential students in Academy U develop skills to help them succeed in tertiary studies and as future leaders, including through lessons learned as part of the ‘Leadership in Complexity’ module they study.
"Academy U has allowed me to identify the main characteristics of university study and test which high school skills are transferable to tertiary study and beyond,” said Victor.
“This valuable experience allowed me to understand what it is really like to study a high-intensity course at the University.”
As part of the unique program, Victor received an early offer to study the Bachelor of Advanced Medical Science at Western Sydney University.
This early recognition not only reassured him but also allowed him to focus on his studies, enhancing his performance in the Higher School Certificate (HSC).
“When I first received a conditional offer from Academy U, I felt extremely reassured that I had a future secured. This security alleviated some stress, and ultimately allowed me to study better for the HSC.”
“Academy U is one of, if not the single most useful program and resource in preparing high school students for tertiary education.
“In addition, the support staff are professional, effective, and personally invested in the program which greatly elevated my experience.”
Victor’s advice for high school students is to make the most of the opportunities available to them.
"Don't let complacency take over; instead, take more control of your life and future. Academy U is more than just a program; it can transform your life if you actively engage with it and embody Western's value of boldness."
Academy U is a finalist in The Future Builder Award as part of the inaugural Shaping Australia Awards presented by Universities Australia. Public voting for the People’s Choice category (opens in a new window) of the Shaping Australia Awards is now open.
For more information about Academy U, please visit the webpage (opens in a new window).
ENDS
17 January 2024
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