Melissa Beville’s academic journey has been very different to that of the usual school leaver.
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“It all began in 2010 when an Assistant Principal offered me paid employment as a Student Learning Support Officer (SLSO) at my local Primary School. Through encouragement I considered options to develop my skill set and became determined to become a Primary School teacher.”
Melissa initially completed a 12-month Tertiary Preparation Course (TPC) at the Illawarra TAFE Moss Vale campus – and this provided an entry pathway into University.
Moss Vale TAFE is located on the same grounds as the UOW Southern Highlands campus, so it was a logical choice for Melissa to start her Bachelor of Arts degree locally in 2013. In addition to Indigenous Studies, Melissa has enjoyed studying subjects in English, Mathematics, History and Sociology.
“As a part-time student, I have been able to fulfil many other responsibilities, such as working as a Learning Support Officer, being part of the UOW Southern Highlands Student team, volunteering to teach Primary Ethics, being involved with my local school Parent Committee, and Judo Club committee - not to mention being a wife, mother, sister, daughter and friend!”
As part of the UOW Southern Highlands student team, Melissa has been able to secure paid employment as mentor in the UOW In2Uni program, which conducts programs in local schools to encourage awareness and aspiration toward higher education. This year Melissa helped deliver the year 7 and 8 Enrichment Programs at Picton High School.
Melissa is currently in her fourth year of part-time University study and hopes to complete her Bachelor of Arts in 2017, then enrol into the Master of Teaching.
“By 2020 I will have acquired the necessary tools required to be a well-informed, successful and effective educator within the Primary School sector”.
