STEPS - Library - Central Queensland University

Part Four: Student transformations
Then a door opened. Standing in this doorway was Karen Seary, Head of
STEPS, who invited me in for a chat. What followed changed my life. To
my amazement, I was shown a way to make my life complete, to fill that
void and to break out of the rut which I had created for myself. Karen
described the STEPS program to me thoroughly and I was convinced that I
could do it … and I did! I sat the entrance test and passed, and a date was
set for me to begin the STEPS program. Three long months went by as I
waited (in a caravan — working in a timber mill) for my second chance at
success, and, finally, it came. Nervousness, anticipation, anxieties, fears and
excitement raced through my body and mind on my first day back, my first
day back at ‘big school’!
I didn’t know what to expect from STEPS at first, but it soon became clear
that it was a comprehensive vehicle for me to attain entry level to
mainstream university and a shot at following my dreams. The staff were
(and still are) amazing. They were always happy to help, and more than
able to do so. It was their efforts that made my transition to academic life a
breeze. They are the dream-makers; they are the magicians who can turn
what seems like a hopeless pre-ordained lifestyle into an amazing change of
perspective. They helped me realise that I could follow my long-lost dreams
and stamp my foot confidently on whatever career path I chose. For that I
am eternally grateful. To the STEPS program, and all the staff at Bundaberg
campus, thank you for changing my life.
Maximilian Fleet, 3 rd year Multimedia student and aspiring film writer/director.
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