Student Highlights
From study to work, the Pathways team support progress

When he learnt he wouldn’t receive an entry level ATAR in High School, Liam decided to spend a few years working before returning to education. Coming back to study through Open Foundation gave Liam an entry option to a degree and re-introduced him to study after his time away.

“I spoke with a staff member of Student Central, who was very friendly, and I was directed towards the Open Foundation program! It was very appealing and accommodating so I could go to uni where I grew up,” he said.

Liam listed the chance to study with a like-minded cohort and readjust his headspace for study as some of the key highlights of Open Foundation.

“It was great to get back into the learning environment with lectures and tutorials, getting back into the right headspace for university. Additionally, working in groups with like-minded people was great, and seeing those groupmates further into my undergraduate around the uni was always a nice surprise!” he said.

With an interest in design, film and music, Liam was able to focus his study on these areas and become more motivated for his undergraduate degree path.

"I loved that I could choose the courses that interested me, such as Design and Film. This helped me transition back into the learning environment in subjects I was specifically interested in, to prepare for my undergraduate degree,” he said.

Reflecting on the benefits of Open Foundation, Liam was able to get back in the mindset of studying in a supportive environment that catered to his future while still understanding he needed to regain his academic abilities.

"It was so beneficial to get back into the swing of things in the learning environment, with skills such as report & essay writing, group collaborations, and just being in the best mindset for my degree,” he said.

With hopes of working in event management, Liam found his place at the University of Newcastle in a Bachelor of Business.

“After changing degrees twice, I finally decided on a Bachelor of Business, majoring in Leadership, and Event Management. My future career goals are to work in high-end sports or music event management! Until then, I’m still loving my work at the University of Newcastle,” he said.

Currently working within the Pathways and Academic Learning Support (PALS) team, Liam has been able to return to Open Foundation in a way to help other students start their study journey.

“I first started at the University of Newcastle gym, The Forum, in the position of Venue Hire Coordinator, where I worked in sports and event management. I ended up being referred to a vacant position in the PALS team where I could help up-and-coming students in the Open Foundation program that I went through, and I jumped at the opportunity,” he said.

Now back working in the team that helped get him to where he is today, Liam loves the opportunity to work and support students who are just like him.

“Helping students of such varied backgrounds all wanting to go through the programs I loved is so fulfilling. I love my role and my team,” he said.

Liam was enthusiastic in his encouragment for anyone thinking of studying Open Foundation.

“Go for it! You should always try new things for yourself,” he said.

“With all the different courses available, you’re sure to find something that interests you.”

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Liam Hallin

Not getting the ATAR for a degree and wanting time off after his HSC, Liam found Open Foundation and knew this was the pathway for him. Now working with the University’s Pathways team, Liam is grateful for the learning opportunity this program created.

I loved that I could choose the courses that interested me, such as Design and Film. This helped me transition back into the learning environment in subjects I was specifically interested in, to prepare for my undergraduate degree.