Country kids prepare to camp on-campus

 

L to R- Bianca Daw and Cinita Markey

More than 65 country kids from around Queensland had a week of fun and games when they attended the University of Southern Queensland (USQ) Priority Country Area Program (PCAP) Enrichment Camp in July.

Hailing from regional towns like Goondiwindi, Cunnamulla, Charleville and Miles, the Year eight and nine students will get a first hand taste of university life and the potential career paths available to them.

PCAP is hosted by the Faculty of Education annually and provides regional students with the opportunity to participate in a range of educational, social and cultural activities, under the supervision of USQ education students and staff.

Professor Nita Temmerman, Dean of the Faculty of Education, said PCAP is not only a wonderful opportunity for the high school students who take part, but also enhances the development of the USQ students who volunteer.

'PCAP brings students from rural and regional locations on campus for a week of learning and to experience life in the big city,” Professor Temmerman said.

'While the event is coordinated by the Faculty of Education the Faculties of Sciences, Arts, Business and Law and Engineering and Surveying all participate throughout the week.'

Roma girl Cinita Markey is a third year education student and said she is looking forward to this year’s camp. Cinita, along with eight other USQ Preservice Teachers, will volunteer during PCAP.

'I had so much fun last year, and I get to spend time with other people and hear their stories. You also learn lots of games and activities, which really helps when you’re out on prac,' she said.

As a rural girl, Cinita said she believed a week like PCAP would encourage rural students to study at USQ.

'Not only do they get to see USQ and all the different Faculties, but they also get to see that Toowoomba is not as big and scary as they might think it is, and it gives them a chance to meet other kids and have new experiences.'

From language and culture sessions, to drama and computer programming, students will get a broad exposure to the diversity of study areas on offer at USQ.

Student Services will also hold a careers presentation where students can discuss their future career and study options.

For more information please contact Anna Dean.

Contact Details:
Connie-Louise Rego, USQ Media, +61 7 4631 2977