CQUniCares Queensland Country Bank scholarship a lifesaver during Sarah’s paramedic studies
Sarah Halligan swapped a career as a Chef and business owner to pursue a dream of becoming a Paramedic and thanks to a CQUniCares Queensland Country Bank Scholarship, that dream will soon be reality.
Sarah, who lives with her three school-age children and partner on Magnetic Island, will soon complete her Bachelor of Paramedic Science degree, and she’s very thankful for the opportunities presented to her during her studies.
“I had worked for myself for many years and while I enjoyed my work as a Chef and business owner, I really felt unfulfilled,” she said.
“I had dreamed of becoming a Paramedic for many years but did not have the self-belief to embark on a degree, especially at 45 years old. I didn’t come from a family of university educated backgrounds, and despite doing well in high school, I really didn’t believe I had what it takes to get through a science degree. Add three children and work on top, it all felt impossible.”
Sarah said a discussion with a new neighbour, a retired Paramedic, motivated her to follow her heart, which lead her to CQU’s Skills for Tertiary Preparatory Studied or (STEPS) course.
“At first, I was hesitant, adding another year to my studies was daunting, but now I know how valuable it was. Taking that year to get myself and my family used to the idea of study, the routines and sacrifices we had to make, was invaluable,” she said.
Sarah later passed STEPS with high distinction and her determination and dedication ended up earning her a CQUniCares Queensland Country Bank Scholarship. The scholarship provides recognition and financial assistance to a deserving second or third-year undergraduate student from Queensland.
“I was overwhelmed when I [received the scholarship]. My family has made some huge sacrifices for me to be here,” she said.
“We relocated from Western Australia to Queensland so I could study with CQU and aim to work for the best Ambulance Service in the country.
“We live on a very tight budget, but knowing I had this amazing support took a huge pressure off me over this last semester of study. The scholarship allowed me to dedicate more time to study and worry less about how to make ends meet.”
She said balancing three kids, aged 15, 12 and seven with study has been a lesson in patience, presence, persistence, and sometimes panic.
“I am so lucky that my three beautiful kids are so supportive of what I am doing for myself and us as a family.”
“I also have a gorgeous partner who is incredibly supportive. She keeps me on track and reminds me of why I am doing this when things get tricky. I am a very fortunate person.”
Sarah said her dream of being a Paramedic and helping others was “so close now”.
“My whole soul lights up when I think of myself in the role. I have now completed 600 hours of on-road experience and every single day I walked away feeling so fulfilled and motivated. Knowing I will be the person who shows up when someone really needs me is incredible,” she said.
“I have a few weeks of my degree left, then I apply to the registration board, then I can apply to Queensland Ambulance Service.
“Putting on that teal uniform will be the culmination of years of hard work and a dream come true.”
She encouraged anyone – particularly single mothers – to not give up on their own pursuits.
“Really, I am honestly saying you are never too old, and circumstances are rarely too tricky to take on this journey. If study and a profession is what you really want, hard work and dedication is all it takes,” she said.
“I can say that there have been quite a few moments in the four years where I questioned my own sanity, but here I am, only a couple of weeks away from gaining my degree and I did it.”
The CQUniCares Scholarship program changes lives and CQU is grateful to partner with Queensland Country Bank who share the University’s passion for making a difference in the lives of our remote students, their families and our communities.
