"It's given me the confidence to believe that I belong at university and that I'm capable of achieving my goals."
UNSW Sydney was always Mia Wilkinson's dream university. So, when she missed the requirements for a direct entry offer by just two marks, she was devastated at first. Then, her Diploma offer to UNSW College set her on the path to a transformative experience she never could have imagined.
"When I received an offer from UNSW College, it felt like I had been given a second chance. Instead of seeing it as a setback, I saw it as an opportunity to build my confidence, improve academically and still achieve my goal of studying at UNSW. Looking back now, choosing the Diploma pathway was one of the best decisions I've ever made."
Studying a Diploma of Science
As a Diploma of Science student at UNSW College, Mia has found the academic support is unlike anything she has experienced before – it was exactly what she needed. Her classes go beyond just teaching students the course content, also building study skills and fostering confidence.
"The smaller class sizes meant my teachers actually knew who I was, and I never felt like I was just another student. They genuinely wanted everyone to succeed and were always happy to answer questions or explain concepts in different ways if I was struggling. The students were also incredibly supportive – we all understood what it was like to be adjusting to university, so everyone helped each other rather than competing.
I've learned much more than what's in the textbooks. I've learned how to manage my time, balance study with other commitments, ask for help when I need it and believe in my own abilities. Probably the biggest lesson has been that setbacks don't define you. Everyone's journey looks different, and sometimes taking a different path helps you become stronger and more resilient."
Beyond the classroom at UNSW College
Outside of her studies, Mia has been able to gain internship experience while also supporting other students on their own paths to UNSW College. As a Student Ambassador, Domestic Recruitment Assistant and a Peer Mentor, Mia can now pay it forward - sharing her personal experiences and advising others on how to make the most of their UNSW College journey.
Notably, she's a strong advocate for getting involved in everything you can, whether that's joining Study Club, volunteering, peer mentoring, or simply talking to the people around you. For her, "those experiences will help you grow just as much as your classes will".
This has been especially important as someone new to Sydney. When she officially made the move to a new and unfamiliar city away from her family and friends, it was the people she met at UNSW College that helped her settle in.
"I was nervous about starting over, but the campus is incredibly welcoming. I've met people from all over the world, made some amazing friends and relationships from being apart of UNSW College, and found a real sense of belonging. There is always something happening on campus, whether it's clubs, volunteering, study sessions or social events, so it's easy to become part of the community."
Mia's pathway to UNSW
Now, as she prepares to progress into her dream Bachelor of Science degree at UNSW, Mia is certain the community she's found - alongside her strong foundation of skills, leadership experiences and overall confidence - will stay with her and leave a lasting impact long after graduation.
It's perhaps no surprise, then, that when asked how she would sum up her UNSW College experience, she'd describe it as "transformative".
"It completely changed the way I see myself. When I missed my direct entry offer, I honestly thought I'd failed and that my dream of studying at UNSW was over. UNSW College showed me that there isn't just one path to success. Since then, I've grown academically, become much more confident, made lifelong friendships and taken on opportunities I never imagined I'd have. It's given me the confidence to believe that I belong at university and that I'm capable of achieving my goals.
I'm leaving UNSW College with confidence, incredible friendships, unforgettable experiences and a clear path toward my future. The pathway didn't just help me get into UNSW. It helped me believe in myself, and that's something I'll always be grateful for."
Interested in finding your own path at UNSW College?
Explore UNSW College's Diploma of Science, a supportive 12-month program that provides you with the foundational skills and knowledge to progress into your second year of the Bachelor of Science at UNSW Sydney.
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