Professional Experience is something that really solidified that teaching was the right career choice for me.
Work experience allowed me to really delve into something I’m passionate about – teaching and guiding young people.
It reassured me that I had made the right choice in my career and brought that crucial 'real world' experience to my training to prepare me for when I graduate.
This experience coupled with the passion my lecturers and tutors brought to class has really made me want to have a positive impact and forge a strong career in education.
I'm now in my final year of studying secondary education and I’m excited to share my skills and make a difference to the lives of young people.
What made you choose QUT?
I chose QUT as I liked the campus and facilities, and it has a great reputation. I feel I've made the right choice as overall my time at QUT has been wonderful and I highly value the knowledge and skills I've developed.
Where did you do your work placements and what was that like?
Both placements were at public state schools, but each were quite different in terms of socio-economics. I think it's really important that pre-service teachers develop their skills in a variety of different schools as they will learn how to face a greater range of situations and challenges. Both placements were enjoyable and I feel I got a lot out of them.
What do you plan on teaching?
I plan on teaching physics and English once I graduate. I think the duo of a humanity and science is fun to learn. I also believe it's very important for students to develop a broad perspective of the world and I hope to bring that to the classroom.
In 2020 you won the 'Speaking UP 4 the Planet' competition for a speech on climate science. Is this something you are passionate about?
I've been quite passionate about the environment and sustainability since high school. It's one of the reasons I wanted to become a teacher; alone I make a small difference, but if I can educate and encourage students to act on issues that are important to them – whatever they might be – then hopefully we can make a big difference.
What advice can you give someone thinking about studying secondary education at QUT.
- Make sure you’re passionate about education!
Your professional placement experience will help to highlight if this is the career for you. Ask your lecturers and tutors questions and talk to working teachers.
- Develop a healthy work-life balance
Learn how to streamline the development of your teaching, draw on developed tools and lessons, and ignore emails in your off time.
- Teaching in a classroom isn’t the only career outcome
Education can be very broad and there are a lot of options such as developing curriculum or research that isn't just teaching in a classroom.
- Use the university library
I recommend using the library’s physical collection and support services when researching for an assignment. QUT has a fantastic library and a huge team of support persons to help you find exactly what you need.
