Keelin was once told that further study after school was not possible for her. Now she has proved everyone wrong, having just graduated from RMIT with a Certificate IV in Education Support. Inspired by the struggles she faced from her own learning barriers, she has made it her mission to help others.
She has openly discussed her own learning barriers as a student and advocated for the difference her support aid made in helping her believe she was capable of further study.
Her insight helped to educate her teachers and peers that with assistance, every child can reach their full potential. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a multitude of different learning challenges for all students.
“It was refreshing to teach a class with someone like Keelin who never complained, instead, she continually offered her own insights into children, especially those with additional needs,” said Keelin's educator Louise McRobert.
Keelin's passion and enthusiasm for teaching has already landed her a job in the education system where she can begin teaching and supporting children.
“I am excited about starting my career as an education support worker, which is what I set out to do from the beginning. This is my dream job. Making a small difference in a child’s day is what’s most rewarding.”
Keelin's teachers hope that this example of a dedicated student highlights how VE courses and the people who study VE programs can bring about so many changes and have such a positive impact on others.