Student highlights

Turning a dream into reality thanks to the Australian Defence Force

Thanks to the Defence University Support Program, Tim is able to study full time and work towards his dream.

Designing for recovery: architecture in a changing climate

Master of Architecture student Mackenzie explores how design can support ecological resilience in the wake of extreme bushfires.

Carly’s journey from Service to Support

Supporting fellow veterans through mental health care is what Carly is passionate about. Transitioning to higher education has helped her get there.

Finding purpose after Service

After leaving the military, Grant wanted to continue serving his country - but in a different way. Finding a new mission within higher education, Grant is now thriving.

Claudia’s pathway to medicine through perseverance and support

Deciding to return to study as an adult can be hard, but Claudia is thriving in higher education thanks to Open Foundation and the Excellence through Equity Pathway to Medicine.

From Passion to Profession: Jessie’s Inspiring Path to Midwifery

Hear from current student, Jessie Scarff, about her experience studying the Bachelor of Midwifery at the University of Newcastle.

Finding purpose and passion through communication

Championing justice through sincerity and action

As a law student Lachlan is using his studies and leadership to make a meaningful difference.

Creating Impact, One Study at a Time

For Sarah, a passion for improving health outcomes through evidence-based research has shaped both her studies and career.

Dreams, Design, and Discovery

For Kajal, studying at the University of Newcastle has been a journey of growth, friendships, volunteering, and unforgettable memories.

Building a bright future

Fast-tracking a career in Defence

While studying a Bachelor of Information Technology, Brody secured a Defence Security Clearance Sponsorship, fast-tracking his career and opening the door to a permanent role in the sector.

Consistency-driven achievements: Meet Evie Nguyen

Evie’s story shows that university is more than studying, it’s about finding your people, building skills, and discovering what you are capable of

Creating change, building community

Carrot’s journey shows that studying abroad can lead to opportunities far beyond academics, helping you grow personally and build meaningful connections.

Making a positive impact through a pathway Diploma

Originally studying a Bachelor of Biotechnology, Madi sought a change, more support and some added flexibility. The Diploma in Science offered just that.

Building community in nursing education

Bachelor of Nursing student Shruti shares how Newcastle became her second home.

A journey of growth and exploration

Yining’s long-term goal is to work as a logistician or marketer in a global organisation or mining company.

Make the classroom work for your career with a Diploma

Kristen is using her Diploma studies to help prepare for the changes in her industry and to stay ahead. And as a bonus, it's also helped her grow professionally.

Finding a passion for marketing through career-ready placement

Nishaya worked across multiple projects that not only enhanced her content creation skills but also gave her a taste of the fast-paced marketing environment.

On the Path to Becoming One of Australia’s Few Indigenous Surgeons

Kieran has chosen to specialise in Orthopaedics to deepen his expertise and provide more effective trauma care.

Mountains, Moguls, and Machine Learning

A seasoned ski and snowboard instructor who splits his time between Aspen Snowmass in the USA and Thredbo in Australia, Luke is pursuing a Master of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (AI) at the University of Newcastle.

A pathway to educational impact

Having faced many challenges in her schooling, Angela is striving to become the teacher she always wanted. Open Foundation gave her the opportunity she needed.

Forging a path to international law through Open Foundation

At just 20 years old, Chaitanya is forging a path to international law through ambition and perseverance.

AI Ambitions from Pakistan

With a prior background in electrical engineering, Abeeha’s interest in data science was sparked during her final year of undergraduate study.

Advancing Care: From Nurse to Nurse Practitioner

Carrie’s passion for clinical excellence and her enduring desire to broaden her impact drove her to pursue the role of Nurse Practitioner (NP).

A second chance at law – and thriving

Now 30 and in the postgraduate Juris Doctor/Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice program at the University of Newcastle, Liam is thriving – not only in the classroom but also in the workplace.

Shaping Mental Health Care Through Advanced Practice

Adam began his professional journey with degrees in Health Science and Nursing (Honours), Mental Health Nursing, Psychology, and Nursing Leadership and Management. These foundations paved the way for the next major step in his career—pursuing a Master of Nurse Practitioner at the University of Newcastle.

Changing workplaces for the better

Luke’s professional journey began in the world of exercise and sports science, but it was his growing interest in workplace wellbeing that set him on a new path.

A passion to keep people moving drove Blake to study podiatry

Blake Withers passion to keep people moving drove him to study Podiatry at the University of Newcastle and forge his career in the industry.

Reinventing a new career through teaching

The decision for Daniel to return to study wasn’t made lightly, but a lifelong passion for helping young people, sparked through volunteering, helped him take the leap.