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Townsville Alumni Stars Enjoying Uni

The end of Term 1 is a proud milestone for the many First Nations students new to the Stars program, and for the many Stars Graduates embarking on new adventures in further studies or work opportunities since completing school.

Stars Transitions Coordinator, Emma Ferguson, visited three Stars graduates who joined James Cook University in Townsville at the start of the year and it was wonderful to see all three students thoroughly enjoying this next phase of life.

While at school, University was always the target for all three Townsville students, Codie-Leigh, Serengeti, and Jayna, and each of them was thrilled when they were offered places in their number one preference at the start of 2024.

Codie-Leigh is pursuing engineering

Codie-Leigh graduated from Thuringowa State High School and is now studying a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours).

“I am thankful for Stars encouraging me to constantly sign up for things as it helped me build confidence and prepared me for life outside of school, which has definitely helped get me to where I am now and has helped me pave the way for my future,” said Codie-Leigh.

Serengeti is exploring biomedicine

Serengeti graduated from Pimlico State High School and is studying a Bachelor of Biomedical Science.

“I am really enjoying getting to do the practicals and working in the laboratory as that is what I can’t wait to do when I finish university,” said Serengeti.

Jayna is tracking for nursing

Jayna also graduated from Pimlico State High School and is studying a Bachelor of Nursing.

“I’m enjoying getting to meet new people and learning about the body systems. My biggest piece of advice for the Stars girls currently going through Year 12 is to not leave things until the last minute, stay on top of your work and your final year will be so much easier,” said Jayna.

All the current Townsville Stars students and staff are super proud of these three young ladies for following their dreams and putting in the work to give themselves every opportunity to achieve their full potential.

Stars program Coordinator at Thuringowa High School, Jodie Cronk, has had the pleasure of mentoring and working with Codie-Leigh for the last two years.

“Codie-Leigh’s university updates put a big smile on my face and makes my heart sing because I know the hard work, effort, and personal journey she had to overcome. If it wasn’t for the support of Stars, especially Year 12 Mentors and Emma, a lot of our girls may not have made it to graduation. The extra support we all provide on an educational and personal level is amazing and these types of outcomes make it all worthwhile while also inspiring the younger students,” said Jodie.

Stars Transitions team helps students with post school pathways

Every Stars program is supported by a Stars Transitions Coordinator, who focuses on employment opportunities and pathways for students. During the senior school years, Stars Transitions Coordinators works closely with the school, families, preferred universities, and local employers to help a student make her aspirations a reality.

The Transitions team are committed to working with Stars students for two years after school when the students become Stars Alumni. In 2023, Stars is proud to have gathered 900+ members of the Alumni and this network continues to grow.

 

L to R: Codie, Serengeti and Jayna gather at James Cook Uni

to reflect on the transition from Stars to university life.