A pathway to educational impact

From self-doubt in high school to thriving at university, Angela Miezis's story shows how the right support can open doors.

Year 12 was a tough time for Angela. She faced challenges at home, moved out to live with a friend, and soon fell behind at school. Without an ATAR and with people suggesting she drop out, she started to lose confidence in her future.

Everything changed when her careers advisor introduced her to the University of Newcastle’s Open Foundation program. Free and flexible, it gave Angela the opportunity to try university-style study without financial pressure. The program helped Angela rebuild her study skills, gain confidence, and create a clear pathway into university.

“Without Open Foundation, I wouldn’t be at university at all,” Angela says. “It gave me my education back.”

At first, Angela felt “scared, nervous and overwhelmed.” But Open Foundation offered her the guidance and skills she had missed in high school. She learned how to write essays, reference correctly, take effective notes, and approach academic study with confidence.

Week by week, her fear turned into focus, and the support of caring tutors made all the difference. “One tutor would even stay back after class for an hour just to make sure we understood the content and felt ready for upcoming assessments,” she shares. Moments like this reminded Angela what makes the program so special, the tutors and staff who genuinely care about students and their success.

The program’s flexibility also helped Angela balance study, work, and life. Because it was free, she could save money for her move to Newcastle and manage the commute from her hometown of Branxton in the Hunter Valley.

Now thriving in her Bachelor of Education (Primary), Angela is the first in her family to attend university. She has embraced campus life, making friends through Unichurch, joining the Uni Seahorses league tag team, and working as a Student Ambassador. Beyond all of this, her biggest motivation is her future students. “[I want] to be the teacher I wish I had,” she shares.

Angela’s story shows how the right start can change everything. She shares great advice to anyone considering Open Foundation. “Just go for it. It’s such a supportive way to start university, especially if you’re unsure. The staff really care, and the program builds your confidence step by step. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or reach out, there's so much support available, and you're definitely not alone.”

Angela Miezis

From self-doubt to success, Angela found confidence and a fresh start through the University of Newcastle’s Open Foundation program.