Alumni stories

When Alicia Burrows gave birth, it wasn’t just her daughter that she fell in love with. It was also the idea of pursuing a new career as a midwife. Now she's juggling work, family and an online midwifery degree to make her dream a reality. 

As a busy mum and trained dancer, Michelle never dreamed that a different career would be possible. But CDU changed all that. Waltzing through a flexible online nursing degree, she's now dancing to a different tune working as a nurse.

After finishing school without a HSC, Matt thought his dreams of becoming a teacher were dashed. But, thanks to a free bridging program, flexible online study and “loads of practical” through a teaching degree at Charles Darwin University, he’s set to return to school in his mid-20s.

Cassian is applying his experience in engaging with the local First Nations communities to find new approaches to solving complex environmental problems back home in Tanzania. 

Inspired by a hike on the Larapinta Trail, Joelene set out to pursue a career in environmental sciences. At 27 weeks pregnant, Joelene completed a three hour exam and now credits her daughter for keeping her on track. 

Studying her master’s degree in occupational therapy, Malia’s set to fulfill her goal of becoming an occupational therapist. Study combined with personal life experience means she’ll be very well qualified.

As a dietitian, Claire Bowditch has always been interested in helping others live healthy lives. So, it’s no surprise that studying a 6-month Graduate Certificate in Health Services Management 100% online was so appealing.

Her work on business councils has seen Nikki help other business and government navigate the implications of COVID-19. And it's given her plenty of opportunity to put her Diploma of Laws to the test. 

Meet the emergency services veteran who, at 80, went to university to consolidate a lifetime of on-the-job learning and help shape the future direction of emergency management.