Jess skips schoolies to focus on future

While many Year 12 students are thinking about schoolies, Tinana teen Jess McCall is focused on her career.

The 17-year-old Aldridge High student has already completed two university courses and has secured a holiday job.

Come the start of semester 1 next year Jess will become a full-time nursing student at USQ Fraser Coast. Jess isn’t expecting any first day jitters because she has been attending classes at the campus since she was 15.

She took part in the university’s Head Start program, which enables senior students to do one or two courses while still at school. Apart from gaining entry and having gained two credits towards her degree, Jess also knows that she’s headed in the right direction with her tertiary studies.

'I’m lucky that I know what I am going to do and have already had a taste of uni life,' she said.

'A lot of people my age are worried about their futures and don’t know if they’ll like the studies they have chosen or where it will lead them.'

Jess didn’t just pass the two uni courses she did while at school, she received an A and a high distinction. USQ nursing lecturer Julie Harris said Jess was a delightful student, always striving to achieve high marks.

'She was always seeking feedback, participated in class and was prepared to go the extra mile,' Julie said.

'She fitted in with USQ life and made it work to her advantage. Jess has the characteristics of a caring and kind nurse.'

Aldridge High Head of Senior School Brett Martell said the USQ Head Start program was ideal for students who wanted to fast track their studies, particularly in the area of nursing.

'The program gives them an insight into university life,' he said.

USQ Fraser Coast will hold a Head Start information night on November 16 in C Block from 6pm to 7pm.

For further information contact Tas Webber on 41943142.