Student Highlights
From Uncertainty to Purpose, Millie’s Journey Through Yapug
For many students, the path to higher education is not always clear. This was the case for Millie, an Aboriginal student from Wellington - a rural community just outside of Dubbo.
Millie initially started a music degree but soon realised it wasn’t the right fit. Seeking a more supported environment with the freedom to explore different subjects, Millie discovered the Yapug program at the University of Newcastle online.
Yapug, meaning "journey" in Awabakal, is a pathway program that provides Indigenous students with access to university studies at no cost, offering a supportive environment to develop skills and confidence.
Millie reflects on her decision to start a degree in education following Yapug, “Doing Yapug was the best decision I ever made, I ended up figuring out exactly what I wanted to do and finding my calling.”
“Growing up in a rural community that is so affected by substance abuse and domestic violence, that was something that I wanted to change. These issues are a massive reason as to why I want to do education. I think education is a key to a lot, I want to be able to help my community.”
On her connection to her community and culture, Millie explains, “being Aboriginal isn't your skin colour and it isn't how you talk or how you act. Being Aboriginal is your connection to culture and I always was connected to my family. I was always connected to my Nan, my Pop, my Mum, my aunties and uncles, and my community. I’ve always been Aboriginal, and I will always be Aboriginal.”
“Here [Wellington] is where my heart is, so I would love to come back to Wellington. My community gave so much to me, and I want to give back to my community.”
When thinking about her future as an educator, Millie admits, “I can’t wait to be able to inspire young people to be their true selves and to be the best at their abilities. It doesn't matter what road you want to take, what career pathway you want to take, what education pathway you want to take, just as long as you are 100% authentically yourself then that is the best you can possibly be.”
Millie's Yapug pathway story 2:21
Hear about Millie's Yapug program experience and her journey to study Education (primary).
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Millie Mills
Seeking a more supported environment, Millie discovered the Yapug program.
Growing up in a rural community that is so affected by substance abuse and domestic violence, that was something that I wanted to change.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.