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After a sporting injury impacted Ayla Clark’s studies, the UOW College Diploma of Business helped fast-track her journey to university. With the support of the Aunty Linda Cruse Scholarship, she’s chasing a bright future in sports marketing.
A representative netball player for Sutherland Shire, Ayla was in her final years of high school when she suffered a hip injury. Struggling to bounce back after surgery and a long recovery, her HSC results suffered.
“My school’s career adviser suggested UOW College as a way to ease the transition between high school and university,” Ayla says.
“UOW College gave me the skills and confidence to step up to university,” Ayla says.
Taking the fast track
Ayla completed her Diploma of Business Fast Track in just two 14-week sessions, gaining direct entry into the second year of the UOW Bachelor of Business (Marketing) in 2025. She found it an immensely valuable experience.
“I chose the Diploma of Business because I love the idea of marketing. My goal is to go into sports marketing, helping build brands and create opportunities for current and emerging athletes. I’m really drawn to it, to the creativity and authenticity.”
“The smaller classes and supportive teachers made it easier to ask questions and engage in the coursework. It also helped me build strong study habits, like time management, and improve my communication skills. I didn’t really have that in high school, and it’s been so important in preparing me for my degree.”
Ayla says all her teachers went above and beyond, including facilitating extra sessions outside regular classes to help students grasp tough concepts.
“In my final semester, I had challenging subjects like statistics and finance. One teacher, Vicki, gave up her own time to run a session for those of us struggling with statistics, which really helped us gain a deeper understanding.”
The smaller classes were also ideal for building supportive friendships that, alongside the strong academic foundation, eased her transition.
“I made great friends, and being able to bounce off and support each other made it so much easier,” she says.
“The foundational marketing subjects set me up well for second year, where we’re now exploring those topics in more depth.”
Empowering First Nations students
A proud Worrimi and Wonnarua woman, Ayla says the Aunty Linda Cruse Scholarship, which covered her UOW College tuition, has been a crucial support in her journey. The scholarship honours passionate activist Aunty Linda Cruse, who paved the way for generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to access higher education at UOW.
“The scholarship honestly had a huge impact. The financial relief allowed me to focus more on my studies, easing the pressure of balancing work and studying,” she says.
“I was able to cut back on my hours at work so I could just get in and get my study done. Receiving the scholarship also boosted my confidence, both academically and personally.”
Ayla also tapped into the support of Woolyungah Indigenous Centre, from study help and access to resources to connecting her with scholarship opportunities.
“Both Woolyungah and UOW College always made sure I was comfortable, supported, and excelling in what I was doing.”
Shooting for the stars
Energised by her studies, Ayla hopes to study abroad – ideally in the United States, home to the world’s finest sports marketing. After graduation, she’s aiming for an exciting and challenging role with a high-profile organisation like the NRL or her sport of choice: netball.
“Netball NSW has a strong First Nations pathway. As a rep player, I’d love to be part of building the profile of the sport and its athletes.”
She wholeheartedly recommends UOW College to other young First Nations students seeking a supportive pathway into higher education.
“Going straight from high school into university would’ve been really difficult, so I’m glad I chose this pathway,” says Ayla.
“If you struggled in high school or found it wasn't for you, it’s a great way to find your purpose and build confidence. You can start with a diploma, then decide if you want to move on to university or into a career.”
Learn more about pathway programs offered at UOW College.