Juggling two kids under two with full-time work is no easy feat, so when Bobbi Depp decided to add study into the mix, flexibility was his top priority.
With a love of health and fitness stemming from his past in bodybuilding, enrolling in UNE’s online Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology was a no-brainer.
“I liked that I could continue to work full-time and spend time with my family, and getting to come to Armidale for intensives was like a little holiday,” he says.
“It was a chance to refresh my brain, connect with others and enjoy the campus experience.”
Still getting to have the full university experience while studying online was a huge highlight for Bobbi.
“I’ve stayed at several of the colleges during intensives and loved the food, the walks, and the community atmosphere. UNE has inspired me to keep learning—I’m even considering a Master in Neuroscience in the future.”
I liked that I could continue to work full-time and spend time with my family, and getting to come to Armidale for intensives was like a little holiday
Making the most of every opportunity helped Bobbi thrive during his studies, and it’s something that he would recommend others do to make the most of their time at university.
“Enjoy the process,” he says, “I also recommend doing extra courses, like the ASCA coaching course with Dr. Brad Morris, a Cert III/IV in Fitness, or even yoga and Pilates. These not only build confidence but also help you connect with people in real-life training situations, which makes conversations with clients flow naturally.”
Image: Bobbi during Intensive Schools.
This is a skill that has proven to be quite useful now that Bobbi has finished his studies. After wrapping up his course work late last year, he took the plunge and opened his own Exercise Physiology clinic in Hervey Bay.
Three months in he’d already passed his 100th patient milestone.
“In my first week alone, I received between three and seven referrals, and the growth hasn’t slowed since,” he says.
“I’m now in the process of opening a small clinic room in town, while continuing to work across gyms, hydrotherapy facilities, and community settings.
“I feel that the 360 hours of placement in the final year really prepared me for this. If you’re confident, placement is a great opportunity to step into private practice, especially if you build strong relationships with DVA, NDIS, GPs, and the local community.”
Your 360 hours of placement provide more than enough practical skills—you just need the confidence to apply them.
While Bobbi’s success is attributed to his hard work and drive to succeed, the support around him made it easier during the tougher moments of his studies.
“It’s been challenging, especially with two kids under two, but I made it through with the help of my amazing teachers and the support of my family. People often say there’s a woman behind every man’s success—well, I’ve had my mother, sister, niece, wife, and daughter all behind mine.”
As for Bobbi’s top advice to other students, here’s what he’d say:
“Ask lots of questions, share your experiences, and don’t shy away from challenges—they’re where you learn the most. Reach out to your teachers for support. I’m also happy to help any UNE students in the Fraser Coast (QLD) area with placements or even mentorship.”
And for those thinking of branching out on their own, Bobbi says to go for it.
“Your 360 hours of placement provide more than enough practical skills—you just need the confidence to apply them.”
If you're interested in going down a similar path to Bobbi, here are some courses you could consider:
