Determination meets opportunity in podiatry

Determination meets opportunity in podiatry

What happens when you combine determination with a university for the real world?

You become a person who thrives academically, professionally and personally.

For QUT podiatry student Monique, success hasn’t happened by chance. She’s taken every opportunity available to her, and QUT has supported her every step of the way.

Monique knew from an early age that podiatry was her life’s calling. Driven and focused, she’s worked towards this goal since she was twelve years old.

But why did she choose QUT to help turn her calling into a career?

She says:

“QUT is special because it combines world-class education with a deeply supportive and inclusive community… you’re not just studying, you’re growing, connecting, and discovering your potential.”

Jump to:

• The Oodgeroo Unit
• Individual pathways—CASP
• Scholarships
• Support moving to Brisbane—accommodation and POP week

Choosing QUT - more than a degree

Monique’s ambition goes beyond personal success. It’s grounded in something bigger.

Her goal is to bring healthcare to rural Indigenous communities where access is often limited. She wants to help create a future where opportunity isn’t limited by geography or circumstance.

When it came time to choose where to study, Monique was looking for a university that aligned with both her career goals and her identity.

A key part of her decision was the Oodgeroo Unit. It offers culturally safe, tailored support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students at QUT.

She explains:

“QUT felt like more than just a university. It was a place where I’d be supported and challenged to grow. The Oodgeroo Unit stood out to me immediately…it gave me confidence that I’d be part of a community that understands and uplifts me.”

That support has remained central to her experience:

“The Oodgeroo Unit has been a cornerstone of my experience, offering cultural connection and support that makes me feel grounded and safe.”

Combined with Queensland’s leading podiatry program, featuring hands-on clinical experience and advanced technology, QUT became the ideal place for her to turn ambition into action.

Individual pathways for individual journeys

For Monique, entry into university was made smoother through QUT’s Centralised Assessment and Selection Program (CASP). It’s a pathway designed to help Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people enter most courses at QUT.

She shares:

“It made the transition into university so much smoother and less stressful. The process was culturally supportive and tailored to recognise my strengths beyond just academic scores. I felt seen and valued from the very beginning.”

Through CASP, Monique was able to share her personal story and aspirations in a way that felt authentic. The relaxed and welcoming interview process helped her secure an early offer, giving her time to plan, prepare, and settle into university life with confidence.

She adds:

“I’m really grateful for this pathway because it opened the door to studying something I’m passionate about, and it set the tone for the strong community and guidance I’ve experienced ever since.”

Monique also highlights the importance of support throughout the journey, particularly from the Oodgeroo Unit:

“The support from the Oodgeroo Unit throughout the CASP journey was incredible. They were there every step of the way.”

For prospective students, especially Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, she strongly recommends exploring alternative entry pathways like CASP:

“There are so many pathways into uni, and QUT is incredibly supportive throughout the process. If you ever feel unsure or have questions, reach out, there’s always someone ready to help. You’re not alone on this journey, and there’s a place for you here.”

Opening doors through scholarships

Monique has embraced every opportunity available to her at QUT, including applying for scholarships that support both her studies and career growth.

She was awarded five scholarships, including the QUT Indigenous Commonwealth Scholarship, the QUT Bank Australia Learning Potential Fund Scholarship, and the Puggy Hunter Scholarship. These have played a vital role in helping her make the most of her time at QUT.

“My scholarships have made a huge difference. Moving away from home was a big transition, not just emotionally, but financially.

Learning to be independent while juggling study, living expenses, and being far from family was challenging at times. The scholarship eased a lot of that pressure and gave me the freedom to focus on my studies without constantly worrying about how I’d make ends meet.”

The scholarship also added to a sense of security and support, especially during those early months when everything felt unfamiliar.

With that stability, Monique has been able to engage more deeply in her degree, particularly through clinical placements. She’s taken the next step in her career by beginning a Podiatry Cadetship focused on high-risk care and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health.

“Scholarships have opened doors I never imagined and helped me grow into a confident, capable future health professional.”

Support moving to Brisbane

Starting university, especially away from home, is a big transition. For Monique, moving to Brisbane meant adapting to independence, managing finances, and a completely new environment.

With the right support that transition became much more manageable.

Through QUT’s Indigenous Australian Accommodation Program, Monique was able to relocate and begin her podiatry studies with a strong foundation:

“Without it, I wouldn’t have been able to relocate to Brisbane and study Podiatry. The scholarship provided not just financial support, but also a safe and welcoming place to live, surrounded by other students who understood the journey. It made all the difference in helping me settle in and focus on my studies.”

Finding connections and making friends at uni