Unlocking a bright future

'Like many people who grew up in a family from a lower socio-economic area in a regional background, I never considered university was ever an option for me.

I became a sole parent and, instead of going to uni, I ran a small business for many years just to get by and support my son. I was so incredibly proud when he was awarded a scholarship for his study.

That scholarship changed his life. It enabled him to study in Melbourne and eventually graduate from Deakin in 2018; the first in our family to ever attend and graduate from university! All this after over 20 procedures on his back and the removal of a tumour only a few years earlier, all whilst studying at the same time. It was the proudest day of my life when Callum walked across the stage to shake the hand of the Chancellor to receive his testamur. I was crying and overwhelmed that he had overcome such challenges but so thankful for all the support he and I both received along the way.

Today, I work at Deakin, leading the University’s gift in Will program. It’s an absolute privilege to work at the University in the very team that partners with alumni and friends to help support those who may not otherwise be able to begin or complete their study without financial support such as scholarships.

My son Callum’s life and career path is now so bright as a result of his education and the scholarship he received. He works in the field that he loves; he and I will always be so grateful to Deakin for the opportunities he’s received. This is the reason I have added the University to my Will. I am so passionate and deeply committed to helping students, battling against the odds, just like my son Callum, achieve their future dreams.'