There is no doubt that Daniel Costa is proud his passion for art has driven him all the way to Charles Darwin University.
In his first year of the Bachelor of Visual Arts, Daniel has studied drawing, studio and painting and is the first of four siblings to go to university.
"It’s easy when you love art," he said.
Daniel successfully completed the Indigenous Alternative Entry Assessment earlier this year giving him the chance to become a Higher Education university student.
"I didn’t reach the required TER score for the Bachelor of Visual Arts, but the Alternative Entry option got me in," he said.
His family is extremely proud and Daniel is now encouraging family and friends to take the next step toward further studies.
Daniel said the Casuarina Campus is easily accessible and a great place to study.
"There is a good mix of students in all my classes," he said.
Learning new techniques, styles and the opportunity to extend his painting style he said has been fantastic.
Daniel would like to work in the arts industry and one day become a famous book illustrator. Along the way he may even try his hand as a tattoo artist!
In his spare time Daniel enjoys hanging out with his mates, camping, visiting family on Melville Island, rugby league and when he has a quiet moment—drawing.
Find out more about Indigenous Academic Support at CDU.