Student Highlights
Discovering new passions

After finishing his HSC, Liam took a gap year before venturing south from Port Macquarie to study a Bachelor of Information Technology at the University of Newcastle.

With a focus on systems development, not only is Liam learning new skills in the area he is passionate about, he’s also exploring new interests – taking electives he never would have dreamed of picking.

“I chose systems development as my area focus because I’m fascinated at the different ways software applications can be used to solve problems in many different workforces.

“I’m constantly amazed at the positive impact computers can make on the world and how IT can be used to benefit businesses by developing solutions that can make things easier or cheaper.

“I’m learning a variety of programming languages and how to apply them to real-world problems which involves developing, maintaining and integrating different software.

“I’ve also been able to explore the creative side of digital media through my electives. I’m currently filming a video for my cinematography class, which is something I wouldn’t have seen myself doing before I started here,” said Liam.

Having moved from Port Macquarie to live on campus at Callaghan, Liam got to experience a unique student experience that many other wouldn’t have and it’s something he credits as having a positive influence on his studies.

“Living at International House has exposed me to people from all over the world. Before I came to uni, I could probably count the people I knew from overseas on one hand. Now I have friends all over the world. Living on campus meant I had a family away from my real family back in Port.

“University isn’t all about what you do in class, it includes your day to day life. I’ve met so many wonderful people from all walks of life. Seeing all these different perspectives on the world has shaped mine for the better, enhanced me personally, and allowed me to flourish as well,” added Liam.

Looking to the future, Liam is motivated to put his theory into business practice – knowing that the skills and experience he is developing will prepare him to be job-ready.

“I hope that when I finish, I’m confident and comfortable implementing and maintaining software for an array of businesses.

“My mum and dad run a private practice, so I’ve seen firsthand the pros and cons businesses face. Knowing that I’m learning things that I could one day apply to their business to help them really excites me,” concluded Liam.

Study Information Technology at UON

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Liam Clarke

Liam Clarke is able to tap into his creative side through a Bachelor of Information Technology.

I’ve also been able to explore the creative side of digital media through my electives. I’m currently filming a video for my cinematography class, which is something I wouldn’t have seen myself doing before I started here