Not everyone goes straight from high school to uni. If you’ve taken a few years to work, travel and live life, you’ll probably find your experience and perspective can really help you make the most of your studies. Samantha’s life-changing uni experience as a mature age student has encompassed many memorable moments. Samantha begun her studies in WA’s Great Southern, completing the UWA Smart Start university preparation course in Albany. This is the perfect prep course for anyone who didn't complete Year 12, didn't get the minimum ATAR for their chosen course or hasn't studied for a while. This was the first step on Samantha’s journey and from there, she was able to kick-start her studies and continue her degree at UWA’s Perth campus.
Now a few years into her degree, Samantha shares some of her favourite uni moments during her time at UWA and how studying on her own terms has shaped her career and her life.
Choosing what to study and the uni journey
Initially, Samantha enjoyed learning about anatomy and would talk to anyone and everyone that would listen. Her passion led her to choosing her dream course to study and paving the way for her study journey.
"The moment I decided to pursue anatomy was when I faced an illness that made me curious about how the human body works. This personal experience sparked a deep interest in understanding the intricacies of human anatomy."
At UWA, I've been able to explore this passion through a flexible study pathway that allows me to dive into fascinating and diverse topics within the field, shaping my academic journey in exciting and unexpected ways.SAMANTHA, CURRENT mature age student, studying BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (hONOURS)
Why studying later in life is an advantage
If you’re over 20 and thinking about studying after taking a break after finishing high school or perhaps going back to university to finish a degree, or you think it might be too late to change careers, think again.
One of the major benefits of being a mature-age student is having a clearer sense of purpose and motivation. You know why you’re here, and that focus can be a great advantage. For me, studying at UWA has been especially rewarding because of the incredible and inspiring female academics. Learning from them has shown me what’s possible and given me a real sense of belonging and encouragement. I would absolutely recommend studying later in life to others—it’s a chance to not only gain new knowledge but to reshape your life and career on your own terms.
Favourite study moments
Featuring in the list of her favourite parts of UWA, Samantha cites UWA’s passionate lecturers and the ability to choose interesting units that aren’t directly related to her degree. She also loves UWA’s vibrant campus and especially when she can find "a quiet spot study and a good coffee nearby." Studying at home has it's perks too, Samantha's cats Ranger and Delilah are great study buddies (and sometimes a welcome distraction when she needs a break!)
But most of all she enjoys “the challenge of research projects” and has also found that she loves the hands-on aspect of her learning experience even more.
During her time at uni, Samantha has taken on career-building opportunities including getting involved in work experience and leadership development programs, such as the Future Leader Experience and the Business Opportunity Accelerator Program. These were valuable experiences that Samantha used to grow her confidence and stand out to future employers.
Advice for other mature age students to make the most of uni
Samantha has truly embraced uni life, balancing work, assignments and her role as the Chair of the Mature Age Student Association (MASA). Taking on a leadership role in MASA has enriched her uni experience and she encourages others to also take part in the social aspects of uni, especially joining one of UWA’s 140+ student clubs (not just for the free stuff, but that is a definite perk).
On top of this, Samantha recommends other students should lean on UWA’s community and the support network available for students.
Wanting to know more about your study and entry options as a mature age student? Now’s your moment to turn your life experience into something life-changing with UWA’s Experience-based entry. Find out more about how you can use a combination of academic achievements and life experiences, such as work, volunteering, TAFE and VET qualifications to apply to study at UWA.Embrace the experience fully and engage with the content. Reach out to your tutors and your peers. The Librarians are super helpful, they are under-utilised.