Casey Timaloa was no stranger to a tertiary education environment, only not from a student’s perspective. Before making the big decision to begin her Bachelor or Sport and Exercise Science degree at UniSQ, Casey worked within a facility in administration and said she had spent years 'supporting students to achieve their own dreams'.
Fuelled by a passion to help others and a love for the human body and movement, Casey knew she could achieve more for herself and so dove headfirst into the full-time degree. At first, Casey was nervous to commence her study journey as a mature aged student, but on reflection, now sees it as a huge advantage, with her life experience proving invaluable to her education.
'The highlights for me whilst studying at UniSQ, would be experiencing the classroom again as an adult and having the courage to ask questions and express opinions. Being around like-minded people and learning from current industry experts.'
Family is Casey’s 'biggest motivator', she loves that together they can share her journey and often enjoys going out for a meal to celebrate her 'smallest wins' or her final results!
With a husband, three children, and being a full-time student, Casey’s life is not surprisingly full! In between school drop offs, kids football training and some late-night study sessions, Casey found being organised was key to her succeeding and managing the workload.
UniSQ’s flexible ways to study helps Casey balance studying with other life commitments. On days that she isn’t able to go into campus, Casey could listen to a lecture on her headphones at the gym or catch up on a reading in the car. Casey encourages others in a similar position to not let a hectic lifestyle get in the way of commencing tertiary education. 'Getting on campus is a great way to meet others, however mixing it up between online, external and on campus helps with life commitments. Time really flies, it will be over before you know it. So, soak it up and make the most out of learning and experiencing something new.'
Casey also suggests seeking support from a UniSQ careers counsellor as they can help provide clarity around your pathway options and timelines. Whilst her own specific direction within sport and exercise science is currently unknown, Casey knows that she is definitely in the right industry and for now, is excited to finish her degree and looks forward to gaining more industry experience.
