On Monday, we officially launched the 2018 CQUniCares Annual Appeal, aiming to raise support for 50 students in 25 days, and changing the lives of 100s.Today we spotlight Joel Godfrey, one of the many students who benefited from the funds raised during last year’s appeal. Joel has jumped head-first into a new life, swapping his day-job as an Electrician to budding Musician. As a single dad, he finds study and parenting a challenge, but thanks to his scholarship – he has a reason to sing.
What was a recent highlight in your life?
I recently received a CQUniCares Appeal Scholarship. This was quite an unexpected surprise for me, in more ways than one. I am a mature aged student studying a Bachelor of Creative Arts (Popular Music) full-time. My lifestyle and situation has changed considerably since I decided to follow my passion. This scholarship has been such a wonderful help financially and has played an incredibly big part in my ability to continue my studies and be successful. I was able to purchase a new laptop and music software. I have since produced and recorded some of my own original songs and have had the opportunity to collaborate with other artists to create a short film.
What is the best thing about being at CQUni?
Being part of an amazing and supportive team of students, sometimes it feels like we are all a little family here in Cairns and seeing every little achievement and success along the way has made CQUni a very special place of learning and growing for me. I really enjoy listening to all the singing and music that just permeates around our studios too.
What do you like to do when you’re not at work?
I enjoy fishing, camping, rafting, swimming at waterfalls and rivers. I guess for me, I like to take full advantage of immersing myself in the tropical lifestyle we have on our doorstep here in Far North Queensland. Sure, we might have to share it with some pretty dangerous creatures, but that just adds another level of excitement to our day and really gives us extra tough credibility points.
What was the moment that made you choose your career?
I have played music for many years but never really considered it to be a career choice that I could pursue. Instead, I completed an electrical apprenticeship straight after I graduated high school and have worked as an Electrician in different industries in various locations for 20 years. After struggling with the many pressures of being a single parent, working full-time and studying an Associate Degree in Electrical Engineering online for many years, I found myself at a point where something had to give. By chance, I stumbled across the Bachelor of Creative Arts.
What would be your last meal?
I would have an all-you-can-eat buffet and really take my time with that, slowly grazing over a few days.
If you were down to your last $10, what would you buy?
Some cheap guitar strings and then I’d get down to the city for some serious next-level busking before the kids got home from school and asked me for $20 for something they needed at school.
Who is the most famous person you’ve ever met?
John Butler of The John Butler Trio.
