Community
28 August, 2024
Uni study hub opens
LONELINESS, isolation and poor internet connectivity are a thing of the past for CQUniversity student Tara Larsen with the opening of a university study hub in Innisfail.
The Cassowary Coast University Centre (CCUC), an initiative of Vocational Partnerships Group (VPG), opened its doors this week.
Building on the success of the Tablelands University Centre, established by VPG in 2023, the CCUC is a close collaboration between VPG and foundation supporter, Cassowary Coast Regional Council (CCRC).
The CCUC, on the upper level of the Innisfail regional library, features modern facilities, including computers, dual monitors, options for BYO devices, high-speed internet and comprehensive academic and wellbeing support.
The centre is designed to foster academic success with flexible learning and study spaces, catering to both individual and group needs.
Ms Larsen, who is the first student to register, is no stranger to remote study and said she was excited about the opening of the hub.
“I’ve always been passionate about the medical field and dreamt of becoming a doctor, a nurse, or a paramedic,” she said. “And, recently, I developed a strong interest in diagnostics.
“To pursue this pathway, I completed a university bridging course remotely in 2023, and I’m now studying a Bachelor of Medical Sonography with CQUniversity.
“Studying remotely has definitely had its challenges. It can be pretty lonely and isolating at times, and I also struggle with poor internet access at home.
“Having the CCUC means I will now have the freedom of being able to come here on my own time and have a space to learn with no distractions.
“I’m also really looking forward to being able to study around other people.”
Ms Larsen was instrumental in the 2023 advocacy campaign, alongside VPG and CCRC’s Youth Advisory Committee, to win the study hub.
CCUC centre coordinator Karina Messina said the goal was to offer every student, regardless of their background or postcode, similar levels of support and opportunities as those in major urban areas.
Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood said supporting youth was a high priority and the university centre would go a long way towards that.
Register at https://bit.ly/3yyJoKh
