Rosalie returns to CIT to redefine her creativity

Rosalie’s journey began in 2002, when she moved from country NSW to Canberra to study interior design at CIT. Drawn to Canberra’s unique combination of city convenience and bushland charm, she found a learning environment that matched her creative ambitions. After further study at the University of Canberra, she entered the design industry, working as a consultant and designer with Rivoland Tiles. This role gave her the chance to collaborate with builders and industry professionals while gaining valuable real-world experience. Keen to expand her skills, Rosalie returned to CIT to study CAD and 3D CAD.

From industry to teaching

Rosalie had always loved teaching others, and soon after entering the industry her passion for education became clear. In 2008, she decided to retrain as a secondary school teacher. Thanks to her CIT qualifications, she received recognition of prior learning at the Australian Catholic University (ACU), which meant she only needed to complete one additional year of study to earn her Post Graduate Diploma in Secondary Education (Visual Arts and Design).

Her first teaching role was as a Visual Arts and AUTO CAD teacher, where she was able to share both her creative and technical expertise while inspiring students.

Balancing life, work and study

In 2016 Rosalie returned to CIT once again, this time to study visual arts part-time while balancing teaching and raising two children. The flexibility and support she had experienced in earlier CIT courses gave her the confidence to continue her learning journey.

In 2018, she completed her certificate IV, a milestone that coincided with her appointment as a permanent visual arts teacher. The course refreshed her skills and boosted her confidence as an educator and artist, empowering her to inspire the next generation of creatives.

Six years later, after a rewarding time teaching, Rosalie felt it was time to focus on her own artistic practice. She took leave from her teaching role and enrolled in full-time study to complete her diploma in visual arts. Her goal is to establish a home art studio, run creative workshops and dedicate more time and space for her personal art.

Rosalie began her diploma at CIT Reid and is now completing her studies at the new flagship CIT Woden campus, a transition she describes as smooth and energising.

“The move from Reid to Woden was supportive and welcoming,” she says. “Attending Twilight tours and being invited to the campus opening event helped me feel prepared and excited about the change. The building has great energy and the facilities are fantastic.”

Creative connections and real-world learning

Throughout her studies, Rosalie has valued CIT’s hands-on approach, taught by experienced industry professionals. The diploma has helped her to reconnect with her artistic identity, refine her skills and build meaningful connections within Canberra’s creative community.

A highlight has been the professional practice subject, which connected her with local institutions such as Craft + Design Canberra, ANCA, Tuggeranong Arts Centre and Canberra Contemporary.

“I’ve met some wonderful people in our local art community and entered four art exhibitions and competitions this year,” she says.

Why she keeps coming back to CIT

Rosalie credits CIT’s flexible study options, supportive staff and practical courses for making lifelong learning achievable at every stage of her career. Just as important have been the people she has met along the way.

“It’s the people I’ve connected with over the last 20 years that keeps me coming back,” she reflects. “From the student services staff to the teachers, everyone has been incredibly supportive.”

A creative future and words of encouragement

With plans underway to build a home studio, Rosalie is excited to begin running art workshops for children and adults while continuing her own creative practice. She remains deeply connected to Canberra’s vibrant art scene and sees CIT as the foundation that helped her transition from educator to practising artist.

Rosalie encourages anyone considering a creative pathway to take the leap.

“Just go for it! You’ll be surprised by how you can make further study work for you and fit it into your life. CIT offer many courses that are relevant and provide the skills you need for your career,” she says.

Learn more about studying visual arts