Charles Darwin University graduate Julie Steele should serve as inspiration to all single mothers with dreams of undertaking a university degree.
Julie completed her degree in Tropical Environmental Science at the former Northern Territory University in 2001 after an arduous eight years of studying part-time.
Julie also received the award for Best Graduating Student in Environmental Biology for 2001 from CSIRO and is now an environmental scientist in rural South Australia with BHP.
Her current position involves overseeing mining operations by working underground as well as monitoring a variety of surface operations. More recently Julie organised the aerial photography of prospective mining sites.
‘The position is extremely rewarding and challenging, and I have found many friends here in Roxby Downs where I and my children enjoy living,’ Julie said.
Julie has a few words of advice to all single mothers considering university studies: ‘obtaining your degree and working your dream job is possible even as a single parent.
‘If you have your goals or dream set, go for it. It is well within your reach.’