Bachelor of Psychological Science alumna Katie Cox had spent the past 17 years teaching, learning and supporting the Awabakal, Wonnarua and Darkinjung people’s school community. It was this environment that led her to re-enrol at university and, ultimately, excel in her studies at UNE.
However, the decision to go back to study did not come lightly, nor was it hers alone.
Kaite at her UNE Oorala Sashing Ceremony.
“I knew I would need extensive community support to fulfil this new role in addition to being a mother to two amazing primary school-aged children, a wife, a family member with care roles for elder relatives, and a full-time worker,” says Katie.
“At work, my team stepped up around me big-time, taking on extra duties of mine to free up study time for me.”
Balancing her commitments was a constant pressure, but leveraging the resources and support around her allowed Katie to navigate those choppy waters and thrive.
“I had units in every Trimester, consecutively, for 3 years straight. It was a really intense time.
“At first, I was hesitant to reach out for tutoring assistance as I was raised to be very independent and to leave resources for others whenever possible. I am so glad that I did reach out to Oorala for tutoring assistance with some of my units. As an external student, having that support to call on felt like having a solid wall to lean against. My tutors were absolutely fantastic and professional.
“Because I was so busy with other life roles, it didn't really feel like I was 'studying a degree', but more like constant parental leave for work. It really hit home when I attended my graduation ceremony and I'm so glad I did.
“I was so proud to share my achievements with my family, in particular my children. To show them what you can achieve with effort and dedication was a special moment for my husband and I.”
Katie with her family at graduation.
Katie was also “genuinely surprised and humbled” to receive the 2023 Oorala Academic Excellence Award and the Vice-Chancellor's Scholar Award at graduation.
“I'd like to congratulate all the nominees for what I know will have been outstanding efforts. I'd also like to acknowledge the community around each student that enables us to undertake the demands of academic study.
“I was incredibly fortunate to have the support of my husband and children as well as in-laws on a daily basis. The support I have received through the Oorala tutoring service and the wider UNE staff also cannot be understated. I don't believe I could have achieved the results I did without their support.”
Katie plans to continue her studies next year with a Master’s in Psychology and then enter the school counselling service in NSW.
Want to understand more about what drives human behaviour? Apply now to study a Bachelor of Psychological Science at UNE.
