From the country to campus: Isabella finds her place

Isabella Broad grew up in Dungog, a small rural town where her family runs cattle across 3,000 acres.

Outside of university, she stays busy barrel racing at rodeos with her horses Cisco and Angel, playing rugby league for the Raymond Terrace Magpies and occasionally jumping on a bull to try her luck against the boys.

Now studying a Bachelor of Education (Primary) at the University of Newcastle, Isabella’s journey to university began through Early Entry Program, which helped ease some of the pressure she felt during Year 12.

“I entered through Early Entry which stopped the stress of year 12 exams and actually allowed me to enjoy the last year of high school without so much stress,” she shares.

But coming from a small rural community, starting university still felt like a big step.

“Attending Newcastle University was scary, I was from the bush, not the city, so it was a very big change for me, but I think for the better,” Isabella says.

Finding her place

What initially felt unfamiliar soon became an opportunity for Isabella to step outside her comfort zone.

“I stepped out of my comfort zone, and settled in very quickly, making great friends and developed a love for the beach and the attempt of surfing,” she shares.

University clubs, Bar on the Hill and group work within her degree have helped Isabella meet people and build connections. She has also enjoyed making the most of the University’s gym and sporting facilities.

Along the way, she says these new experiences have helped her grow in confidence.

“All these experiences shape who I am today, and has made me become more adaptable, confident and open to a lot more opportunities.”

One of Isabella’s highlights has been discovering the opportunities available through university, including the chance to go overseas and meet other students.

She has also found support and inspiration in the people around her. When asked about a moment that made her feel like she belonged, Isabella pointed to “An inspiring teacher that had so much going on in her own life yet still came to our lectures with a smile and a laugh.”

For Isabella, studying primary education is closely connected to the people and experiences that have shaped her own life.

“I chose the Bachelor of Primary Education because I have always enjoyed working with younger children. I have younger siblings that I absolutely adore, and I love being involved with their learning and development which has further inspired me to pursue a career in teaching,” she explains.

Her own positive memories of primary school have given her another reason to pursue teaching.

“I also had a very good experience throughout my own primary school years, and I would love to create that same opportunity and environment for other younger children. I am passionate about helping them grow both academically and personally,” she shares.

Looking ahead, Isabella hopes to make that same kind of difference for the children she teaches.

“Help younger children have an awesome experience at primary school just like my teachers did when I was there.”

From feeling nervous about starting university to finding friends, building confidence and discovering new opportunities, Isabella has learnt the value of giving something unfamiliar a go.

Her advice to other prospective students is simple:

“Just do it. Allow yourself to step out of your comfort zone like me and explore who you are and what you like!”

Just do it. Allow yourself to step out of your comfort zone like me and explore who you are and what you like!