My name is Zali Garioch and I am currently 17 years old. I graduated from Mirani State High School in 2016 and I commenced full-time study at CQUniversity in 2017. I participated in the Start Uni Now (SUN) course during 2015 and 2016 and successfully completed a total of four Bachelor of Education (Secondary) units. I found out about SUN whilst at school during a presentation by CQUniversity.
Beginning my study early at CQUniversity sounded like a great opportunity and an excellent way of getting a taste of what to expect at university. The biggest challenge about taking part in SUN was the fact that I chose to study online by distance education. This was extremely daunting to me as I have always been taught in classrooms my whole life.
As the study weeks went by I found myself adjusting quite well to the new learning experience. It was an adjustment getting used to virtual learning and communicating with lecturers and students over the computer. I was overwhelmed with support I received from student advisors and uni lecturers. They were always willing to help with anything and everything, which was extremely encouraging as I was still a little nervous about the whole uni thing. Navigating your way around the learning sites was a challenge, but just like everything - practice makes perfect.
The best thing about distance education is that it doesn’t feel distant at all.
You are in constant contact with your class mates and your lecturers, which makes the whole learning experience much easier.
One piece of advice I would like to offer is that all distance students should make an effort to post in the discussion forums. It is a great way for fellow students and lectures to communicate by sharing ideas and opinions. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
Studying education units with the CQUniversity SUN course has strengthened my passion for teaching and encouraged me to push myself to keep going and never give up.
I have aspired to become a teacher for many years and to finally begin my journey into the education world through SUN has definitely reassured me that I made the right career decision.
If you’re reading this and contemplating studying at CQUniversity I would honestly say GO FOR IT. The university was very welcoming and encouraged students to get involved and to grab opportunities as they come, another piece of advice I encourage new comers to look into.
Applications for Term 1, 2019 (11 March – 7 June) close 22 January, 2019.
For further information, please contact the SUN Team by calling 13 27 86 or via email [email protected].
