Student Highlights
Joshua’s pathway to studying education
Central Coast student Joshua wasn’t sure if university was in his future after receiving a low ATAR score after studying his HSC.
“I was dealing with a lot of personal issues during my last year of high school. It caused me a lot of anxiety which resulted in low academic performance and ultimately an undesirable ATAR. This caused me to question whether or not I would be able to complete a university degree” he said.
He decided to look into alternative entry pathways into university. “Thankfully, the University of Newcastle offered enabling pathway programs as an alternative pathway into tertiary education,” said Joshua.
Joshua credits studying a pathway program with developing his analytical skills and preparing him for university study. “Studying a pathway program has made me a far more intelligent, articulate, and astute individual. The critical thinking skillset that I learned during the program is arguably the most valuable skillset I have ever been taught,” said Joshua.
Joshua completed his pathway program and is now studying a Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) (Honours). He is about to begin his dream career as a primary school teacher. “I was extremely happy and very relieved when I found out that I had been accepted into a Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) (Honours) and I have never looked back. It’s honestly one of the best decisions I’ve ever made in my life!”.
“Education is undeniably powerful; it can be used to improve the lives of countless people. I want to provide children with the opportunity to either learn how to, or become more proficient in reading, writing, speaking, thinking, and comprehending. As well as teaching them fundamental mathematics skills. Once this foundation has been laid, they can then use it to further their knowledge in other subject areas. I want every student to become a well-educated person who has access to opportunities that will improve their quality of life. As well as teaching them how to become a better person, leading by example. This is the lasting impact that I want to have, and I truly believe I can achieve this through education,” explains Joshua.
He encourages others to dive into a pathway program to make their dream a reality. “I urge anyone to give Open Foundation a go! Just five years after I started the program, I’m now about to begin my dream career as a primary school teacher. And there’s no reason why this program cannot set you on the same trajectory toward your dream career,” said Joshua. “It has absolutely changed my life for the better, in more ways than I can count!”.
Learn more about Open Foundation
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Joshua Gilmore
Joshua completed his pathway program and is now studying a Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) (Honours).
Studying a pathway program has made me a far more intelligent, articulate, and astute individual.
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