Rory STEPS above in property career
Determination, perseverance, and support from CQUniversity’s Skills for Tertiary Education Preparatory Studies (STEPS) program were just what Rory O’Connor needed to achieve a fulfilling career in property valuation.
Rory was among the first cohort of students from CQUniversity Cairns to complete the STEPS program in 2016, gaining direct entry into a Bachelor of Property.
"It had been 16 years since I studied high school, and I believed I needed to equip myself with the appropriate skills to succeed at the undergraduate level,” Rory said.
“I first learned about the STEPS enabling program through friends who had completed the program at the Rockhampton Campus.
“When I found out it was offered in Cairns I knew that would be the right option for me.”
During his time in the program, Rory said he found the experience rewarding and confidence-boosting.
“There are always ups and downs in a study journey, but resilience is the key. That’s what I think uni teaches you.
“The STEPS pathway made transitioning to the bachelor's program very easy due to the skills and support I received. I could navigate university systems like Moodle for starters, and found the essay writing and computing I had learnt very relevant.
“You are already steps above the undergrad students who never did STEPS - pardon the pun!”
He praised the support he received from his STEPS coordinator and lecturers, emphasising their positivity and understanding of students' early journey into university education.
“When I completed my last examination, I was very emotional walking down the hallway looking for my STEPS coordinator to thank that person for believing in me and giving me the confidence to complete my studies.”
Rory said his decision to pursue university study stemmed from a desire for a career change and long-term career options.
"I always wanted to obtain a degree to have options and longevity in whatever field I chose,” he said.
“Initially I was interested in valuing hotels due to my experience in business operations, however, this changed as I discovered a passion for residential property valuations during my studies.”
Now a Certified Practising Valuer, Rory said his role focuses on specialising valuing properties in Cairns and the Cassowary Coast.
He credited the transformative power of the enabling program in helping him to achieve his successful career advancement and personal growth.
Explore the Skills for Tertiary Education Preparatory Students (STEPS) at cqu.edu.au/steps.
