A new world of possibilities opened for Ethan Webster when he knocked on the door of UNE Taree earlier this year. Now, the 34-year-old single father is preparing to embark on a Bachelor of Counselling and intent on doing his kids proud.
“I’d started my own lawn-mowing business out of necessity, rather than choice, to have the work flexibility I needed,” said Ethan. “But now that the kids are a little older, it’s time for me to re-enter the proper job market.
“My life experiences of separation and divorce have shown me there’s quite a gap in the support offered to men and that’s where I want to put my energy, into helping others.”
After leaving high school, Ethan did a mechanical engineering apprenticeship and worked in that field for a decade. Any initial fears he had of launching into tertiary study have been eased by the UniVenture program delivered by the Taree Universities Campus and UNE Taree.
During weekly mentoring sessions Ethan has been refining his career goals and developing the study skills and confidence he will need to step into higher education. He’s feeling prepared and motivated to commence study at UNE in 2027.
“The process has been quite eye-opening but it has shown me that part-time study and work and parenting is achievable. It all started with a conversation with one of the UNE staff, who talked me through the study options.”
Ethan now visits UNE Taree about three times a week to complete his UNE Foundation units. “There are six or seven computers and a printer and the kettle is right there … it’s just my speed. Nine times out of 10 there’s someone in there who’s either studying or has studied and can guide you through the process and assure you that it’s do-able.
“Having this in my hometown, with my other commitments, has made university study possible for me. I hope I’m showing my kids that it’s never too late, that they can go on to extra studies after they finish school.”
And, for Ethan, it may not end with counselling.
“I’ve always been interested in how the brain works. The plan is to complete counselling and then I might potentially add psychology later on.”
