A summer job that changed everything

Riley took a summer job for a building maintenance company and fell in love with the industry. A year later, she achieved best performing student in her Diploma of Engineering cohort and entry into the second year of a Bachelor of Engineering at UOW.

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‘Everything changed when I saw the results for my first maths assignment. I just showed up and did the work and almost achieved the best grade possible,’ says Riley. 

‘I realised that if I kept putting in more effort, I could do really well.’  

Discovering her potential in a field she loved became Riley’s motivation to succeed.

A bridge to engineering

‘Best performing student’ wasn’t Riley’s goal when she began her study at UOW College, but she quickly realised that her genuine interest in maths and science drove her to high academic achievement. 

From day one of her course, Riley was impassioned by her love for engineering and consistently achieved top results. Although secondary education had drained her academic confidence and motivation, Riley didn’t let this experience determine her abilities.   

Riley applied directly for UOW College as a mature age student, so she didn’t have to worry about having an ATAR.  

‘At the time, there wasn’t a direct bridging course into the Diploma of Engineering. I took every maths course offered at UOW College and physics before entering,’ says Riley. 

‘I’m glad College offered that level [of maths and science] because I still had things I needed to learn.’ 

When she was feeling particularly overwhelmed, she knew she could lean on UOW College staff and her fellow students. 

‘I went in ready to ask for all the support available, so I felt confident from the beginning.’ 

UOW College’s academic pathways were an opportunity for Riley to upskill and achieve the technical knowledge required for university-level study.

Systems for success

Now enrolled in the second year of a Bachelor of Engineering, Riley has all the foundational skills and academic know-how to succeed in a long-term career in a field she’s passionate about.  

‘[College] sets you up for independent learning and study,’ says Riley. ‘The smaller cohorts make it easier to get feedback and ask questions.’ 

Asking questions was Riley’s greatest asset as a top-performing student. 

‘You’re there to learn, so if you’re not asking the professionals, how will you know how to do your best?’   

Riley was able to receive feedback from teaching staff and peer leaders face-to-face in class and in peer learning sessions. Connecting with her small cohort each week made Riley feel assured that she was on track. 

‘The [Peer Learning] sessions at College are a huge support. You have a safety net around you.’  

For Riley, returning to study through a supportive pathway was an opportunity to connect with her passion and discover what drives her to succeed. 

‘Coming back as an adult and choosing to do something is a totally different ball game,’ she says.  

With the flexibility to choose her own path and support to achieve in her studies, Riley is transitioning into university with confidence.

Learn more about pathway programs offered at UOW College.