Why we do it

I recently received the following email. Carolyn gave me permission to post it here.

Dear Professor Bowman,

My name is Carolyn Tappenden, I have just completed your WIST program with Distinction, and would like to sincerely thank you for the opportunity in taking part in the most rewarding academic venture in my life to date. I live in a remote, insular mining town and through a chance meeting with one of your staff members here in Dysart, found out about the WIST course and decided it was perfect to suit my current circumstances and goals. I have now applied to study Bachelor of Nursing at CQU. Previous to undertaking the WIST program I had no academic confidence, and felt my ability to study and learn was severely lacking. Through the support and encouragement offered to me by Nell Salem I found confidence in my abilities, and so discovered a love of the structure and discipline that accompanies learning. I have always revered the academic world and am so proud at having completed the first step into my future. Initially I was going to apply through QTAC, though even if I had of been accepted, I now feel that it would have been a waste of time and money to start university without this course behind me, due to my complete ignorance of the expectations of thesis writing at university level. I have learnt so many valuable lessons, through completion of the course, that I will take with me into the future. I have discovered a renewed resourcefulness and strength of conviction, and will endeavour to always achieve maximum outcomes in my imminent profession. The program being free was just an added bonus, for I feel no monetary value could be placed upon the knowledge and confidence I have gained. Thank you once again for this wonderful opportunity.

Yours sincerely, Carolyn

We do have a real impact on people's lives. We should all be very proud of our reputation as Australia's most Accessible University. Many thanks for the feedback Carolyn and all the very best for your future studies.