Graduating Speech Pathologist and Resilient Trailblazer

June Graduation Student Profile - Jacqueline Peck

For Macarthur resident Jacqueline Peck, the journey to becoming a Speech Pathologist has been one of determination, resilience, and deep-rooted passion. Jacqueline had long dreamed of entering the field after witnessing the profound impact speech pathology had on her own family 14 years ago.

However, for the proud mother of four, the demands of raising a family and the long distances to other universities offering the program had made it impossible, until Western Sydney University brought the course closer to home.

“When I saw that speech pathology was being offered at the Western Sydney University Campbelltown campus as my youngest was starting school, I knew it was the time to start my studies,” said Jacqueline.

After initially enrolling in a Bachelor of Health Science to ease into university life, Jacqueline quickly proved her capabilities by earning a place on the Dean’s Honour List in her first year. That achievement gave her the confidence to pursue her true passion—speech pathology.

“I didn’t believe in myself at first, so I tested the waters with the Bachelor of Health Science, however, when I achieved the Dean’s Honour List in my first year, I knew I was ready to commit to Speech,” she said.

Jacqueline’s remarkable journey didn’t end there. During her final year, she faced an unimaginable challenge when she suffered a catastrophic stroke caused by a vertebral artery dissection.

She lost a quarter of her brain and had to relearn how to walk, swallow, and even see. Her recovery involved intensive care, neurological and rehabilitation wards, and eventually home-based rehab.

This led to her crossing paths with other Western Sydney University students in a very different way.

“During my time on the Neuro Ward, I actually had the pleasure of being seen by a number of Western Sydney University students on their rotation and receiving incredible care from them,” said Jacqueline.

June Graduation Student Profile - Jacqueline Peck

Despite these challenges, Jacqueline remained committed to her studies. With the support of Western’s Disability Services and her academics, Jacqueline returned to campus and while she was still in hospital, delivered a debate presentation from her hospital bed. She also found strength in her family and the university community.

“It was important to me to have the opportunity to complete my studies,” said Jacqueline.

“When you are a mum and a wife, the sacrifice of the family is great. I could not have done it without them. I also kept doing it because of them.”

Now that she is graduating, Jacqueline is ready to make a difference in the lives of others. Her goal is to deliver evidence-based, client-centred care that empowers individuals to reach their full potential. She brings not only clinical knowledge but lived experience, empathy, and a fierce commitment to her profession.

“I want to hit the ground running and be the type of practitioner that makes a difference in people’s lives.”

Outside of her career, Jacqueline cherishes time with her family and enjoys camping trips that offer a break from her busy life. For her, Western Sydney University wasn’t just a place of learning—it was a place that represented her values and her community.

ENDS

11 June 2025

Kathryn Bannon, Media Officer.