Meet Daniel, a psychology student making the most of university opportunities. Daniel’s decision towards psychology wasn’t merely a choice; it was a discovery of a deep-seated passion. Daniel found himself voluntarily engrossed in the subject’s textbook weeks before the academic year commenced.
Outside uni, Daniel is a child-care educator, with an open mind and inquisitive spirit. He enjoys the connection between textbooks and the classroom – and unbeknownst to him, has found a career that connects them both.
University life, especially in the first year, presents a variety of challenges. Daniel underscores the need for personal initiative and goal-setting to navigate the academic landscape effectively. Striking the right balance between structure and self-driven direction becomes a pivotal aspect of his university experience.
Daniel actively engages in extracurricular activities, seeking a holistic university experience. A few stand-outs of his year were Daniel winning the opportunity to be part of the Curtin Podcast Society, another was Daniel’s participation in a short course named “Good Questions” which provided a unique outlet for his philosophical interests.
However, Daniel’s biggest stand out was his participation in the Gingin John Curtin Weekend, facilitated by Curtin Volunteers, as it was an immersive and transformative adventure. Daniel’s trip was funded, which played a crucial role in initiating his involvement, broadening his horizons, and reinforcing the value of community engagement.
“I think the funding made it a lot easier to get involved in the first step. The advantage of the funding provided in the first place is I’d have nothing to lose from this – so why not try it”.
As part of Curtin Volunteers, Daniel and his companions set up camp at the observatory, a surreal experience involving sleeping bags and the vast night sky. Their tasks ranged from cleaning to moving around telescopes and engaging in experimental attractions.
One experiment involved replicating Galileo’s famous study, dropping balloons of different sizes to observe their descent. The aftermath—thousands of balloons scattered on the ground—prompted the team to embark on a humorous cleanup mission in a ditch. Despite the unconventional tasks, the camaraderie and shared enthusiasm made every moment enjoyable. The staff at the observatory were not only appreciative of their assistance but also bid them farewell with heartfelt gratitude, leaving a lasting positive impression on Daniel.
The weekend stood out as an amalgamation of diverse individuals connecting over shared interests. The experience was more than just an astronomical adventure; it was an opportunity to break away from the routine, meet new people, and immerse oneself in the beauty of the universe. Daniel’s initial apprehension about spending a weekend with strangers dissipated as the group’s openness and warmth created a positive environment. The diverse mix of ages and backgrounds, from first-year undergraduates to those pursuing masters, added richness to the experience.
“I think for me, the thing with university is it’s really what you make of it”.
Looking ahead, Daniel envisions further academic pursuits, aspiring to achieve full qualification in psychology. His unexpected passion for childcare and child development adds depth to his aspirations, reflecting the transformative power of immersing yourself in the opportunities life presents. Daniel embraces all that comes toward him knowing that it all will come together for his greater good.
