Western Sydney University met me where I was at from day one - Female in Science reflects on university
Carmel Matheson’s journey to university began when she took time away from her 20-year banking career to be her mother’s full-time carer following a terminal diagnosis.
“When she passed away, I felt lost,” said Carmel.
“I decided that university was going to be a bridge between protecting a future career I was still unsure of and caring full-time for my two young children.”
This year, Carmel will graduate from Western Sydney University with a Bachelor of Science (Environmental Health) after 7 years of part-time study.
Carmel had spent many months researching universities and degrees, having never been to university before, when she was just about to give up on the idea.
“With one day remaining before applications closed, I found Western Sydney University’s Bachelor of Natural Science (Environment and Health), as it was known at the time. It was serendipitous.”
“The degree ticked all the necessary boxes. It covered subjects I was interested in and passionate about, was available to study part-time, and offered in composite form, meaning I could study in my own time online and attend on-campus intensives during mid-session break, and the biggest drawcard, home campus was a short distance away.
“Western Sydney University met me where I was at from day one, making study and family life manageable; because of this, the University was my first choice.”
Reflecting on her time at university so far, Carmel says it has taught her many lessons both inside and outside the classroom.
“Although students are given the same content, we are all individuals. I recognise that with my life experience, at times, I interpret information differently or have an alternate perspective.”
Being a career switcher, studying something brand new and juggling being a mum has been a learning curve for Carmel, as she finds a rhythm of blending family life, study and work.
“I personally chose to undertake part-time study so I could balance life, while also giving university the respect it deserved. I am so honoured to be part of my cohort and Western Sydney University.”
“It took me time to recognise university looked different for me compared to most, and once I acknowledged this pathway for myself, I was able to focus so much more on my studies and enjoy university even more.
“I have learnt to multitask, time manage, prioritise where needed and delegate when possible. These skills have strengthened with each year of study where I have been able to improve my study processes while exceeding expectations, support my children as a homeschooling parent and undertake paid employment.”
Carmel has fond memories of bringing her children to her orientation day and countless visits to the University’s library where she studies and works on assignments while her children read books and work on their own projects.
“I am an example to my children that irrespective of age, passion can help you achieve anything.”
“I am so grateful for the University’s inclusiveness of all students and providing a positive and safe environment.”
Throughout her studies, Carmel’s passion has been fuelled by the highly skilled and knowledgeable teaching and support staff at the University.
“I am often excited to hear or read the content shared, hear their experiences and learn from their expertise, but most importantly, see their passion. They make studying at Western Sydney University a positive and supportive experience, leaving me with profound moments and lifelong memories.”
As part of her degree, Carmel undertook a placement, which in her words was ‘challenging, educational and rewarding’.
“I collaborated and evolved my university knowledge and skills within a workplace that supported my growth where I had a voice, particularly a female voice in a male dominated area.”
“As women are not equally represented in science, there are so many opportunities to become key figures in future change on an individual and global scale, and become a much-needed voice in our community.”
Carmel says science is so much more than research, figures and data with skills learnt throughout her degree being transferable to an array of career opportunities.
“The subjects within the degree have been instrumental in providing learning opportunities that can be replicated and further supported in future employment pathways.”
With her final year of study underway, Carmel is excited to be finishing her degree after many years of hard work and dedication.
“Western Sydney University has spurred my inner desire as a lifelong learner, so I will treasure the short free time I have as I ponder where to next.”
ENDS
11 February 2025
International Day of Women and Girls in Science
Western Sydney University met me where I was at from day one - Female in Science reflects on university
Carmel Matheson’s journey to university began when she took time away from her 20-year banking career to be her mother’s full-time carer following a terminal diagnosis.
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