ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app

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This year Walbunja student Kiara Astbury has finished her Bachelor of Arts (Honors) majoring in History and minoring in English literature and sociology. Kiara’s journey started in 2017 with early entry through the Indigenous Admissions Program (IAP). The IAP is an assessment process that offers an alternative pathway into ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app undergraduate programs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. 

Like many students, Kiara’s experience at university was significantly impacted by the COVID pandemic and the challenges of navigating adulthood. One of Kiara’s biggest challenges however was overcoming the self-doubt of not feeling capable enough to achieve her goals. However, by progressing at a slower pace and taking a gap year when needed, Kiara gained the confidence to not just complete her honors degree but enjoy her whole experience studying.  

“After having completed a year of study I had realised that success at university isn’t about being “smart” but rather about being passionate and driven,” said Kiara.

Like most students Kiara found starting university to be a daunting and overwhelming experience. The WIC community and regional campuses however provided valuable support services and many opportunities for students to engage with each other, feel comfortable and supported in their learning. 

“I felt very supported by both the staff at the ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½app Eurobodalla campus and WIC, making great friendships and received crucial academic support from the ITAP program,” said Miss Astbury. “I can confidently say that without ITAP I would not have made it through my first year of university,
My first ITAP tutor showed me so much patience and kindness, those are qualities that inspired me to become an ITAP tutor myself.”

Kiara explained that it was the passion of her tutors and other staff which gave her the confidence to trust herself and aim high.

“Ultimately the best thing I learnt from university was to trust in myself and to have the confidence to go after anything I want because I know now that I am capable and resilient” Kiara said. “To any other Indigenous students or youth thinking of starting University, I would say to trust your instincts, follow your passions and to never give up on yourself. There will be challenges and there will be hard times but there is support available and people who will be there for you along the way.