I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Communications with a major in Social Media at the University of the Sunshine Coast. I chose this course because it offers a broad and diverse curriculum, along with a unique major that I hadn’t seen offered elsewhere. I am deeply interested in the innovative, fast-paced, dynamic and rapidly evolving world of media, particularly the social media sector, and aspire to build a career in this field. This flexible degree allows me to tailor my studies to match my skills and interests, while also helping me clarify my long-term career goals. Potential career opportunities this degree could open up include roles such as content strategist, creative director, marketing officer, public relations officer, or social media manager. The varied learning outcomes of this course will help me determine my ideal career by offering me a wide range of classes across different areas of the media industry.

Being both a student and a high-performance athlete complements each other in a way that provides a necessary balance. At times, I can become consumed by thoughts of training or upcoming competitions, but being a student offers a refreshing distraction, helping me avoid getting stuck in that cycle. My studies are unrelated to my sport, so it’s a welcome change when I need it. Similarly, when my studies become overwhelming, training allows me to step away and clear my mind, providing a break from the stress. Having been part of the National Team for almost ten years now, I’ve had my fair share of media commitments, and it’s been interesting to observe how organizations like Swimming Australia and Paralympics Australia manage their media obligations. These experiences have sparked an interest in potential career paths post swimming. I believe success as an athlete comes from maintaining a balanced approach to all aspects of life. Being a student-athlete allows me to live a well-rounded lifestyle, where I can focus on different areas. If one aspect isn’t going well, I can shift my attention to the other. Demonstrating that elite athletes can excel in both their sport and studies serves as an inspiration to young Australians, encouraging them to pursue both ambitions. For athletes, engaging in study can help create a sustainable, long-term career, enabling them to reach their full potential in both sport and academics.