Albany high school students inspired to think about future on educational UWA trip

Albany teenager Rikarly Miniter remains undecided about her choice of career, but a visit to Perth’s University of Western Australia campus has left her feeling inspired.

The North Albany Senior High School Year 12 student joined 33 other Indigenous students from across the State on a five-day trip to Perth for a leadership program at UWA aimed to encourage them to pursue tertiary education.

The seminar gave students an opportunity to build networks and friendships while meeting current Indigenous students studying at the university.

Students were provided with information about UWA entry pathways and scholarships.

Ms Miniter said she enjoyed “getting out of her comfort zone” and meeting new people.

“Having the chance to experience university and what you would expect in your day-to-day life with lectures or other activities,” she said.

“Participating in the camp helped me think about my future studies at university... I gained lots of information about possible pathways and different courses.”

Nursing and agriculture were emerging as two possible pathways after high school, Ms Miniter said.

“In a job I’d rather be hands-on and help make a difference in society rather than sitting in an office,” she said.

They were also given tours of the university’s residential colleges and participated in study, cultural and self-esteem workshops.

Brendon DeGois, from UWA’s School of Indigenous Studies, said it was an interactive opportunity to learn about their options.