Melanie’s path to confidence through education

Melanie’s journey at CIT has been one of personal growth, resilience and deep inspiration. Growing up in Alice Springs, Melanie faced challenges adjusting to various boarding schools, none of which seemed to fit. “I tried different boarding schools and it didn’t work out for me,” she recalls, “but when I came to CIT it was much easier.”

The welcoming and supportive environment at CIT helped her thrive, especially in subjects like English and maths, which were once struggles yet became growth opportunities, marking the start of a transformative chapter in her life.

A supportive environment to nurture growth

At CIT, Melanie grew not just as a student but also in her confidence. Completing her ACT Senior Secondary Certificate was a pivotal milestone, setting the foundation to pursue her goals.

“Being at CIT made me confident in many ways,” she shares. CIT’s flexibility also allowed Melanie to work at her own pace from home, helping her make significant progress towards her goals.

Encouraged by her success, Melanie’s journey continued when she enrolled in a children’s education and care course. Initially nervous about speaking up in class and interacting with others, Melanie soon found herself stepping out of her comfort zone.

“Studying made me talk more and be confident about having conversations with people around CIT,” she says. With encouragement from her teachers and classmates, Melanie’s confidence grew, and she began to embrace the power of connection and collaboration.

The impact of inspiring role models

A key turning point in Melanie’s journey was learning about education activist Malala Yousafzai.

“The highlight of my study was learning about Malala,” Melanie reflects. “It made me realise how important education is for girls like Malala, and it inspired me to keep on going with my education at CIT.”

This inspiration reinforced her determination to complete her studies and use education as a tool for creating change.

Developing a passion for language preservation

Melanie’s passion for learning was deeply influenced by her Nana, an anthropologist and linguist, and Inge Kral, a Research Fellow at the Australian National University's Centre for Aboriginal Economic Policy Research.

“My nana and Inge are my role models,” Melanie explains. “I was inspired by them going on field trips and collecting languages and information and making a dictionary out of it.”

These experiences shaped Melanie’s desire to contribute to her community and continue her Nana’s legacy of supporting Indigenous peoples and their futures.

A mission to create change through education

For Melanie, completing her ACT Senior Secondary certificate was about more than personal achievement.

“It is important to complete your ACT Senior Secondary certificate because you’re not only doing it for yourself but for the people around you as well,” she says.

Melanie sees education as a powerful tool for change and completing further study is equipping her to help others and support the causes she cares deeply about.

Melanie acknowledges that her journey wasn’t always easy. “Success doesn’t come overnight,” she reflects. “Keep pushing yourself even when times are hard.” Her perseverance paid off and she learned that every challenge was an opportunity to grow stronger and more determined.

A journey to making a lasting impact

Today, Melanie stands confident and empowered, ready to give back to her community. From completing her ACT Senior Secondary Certificate to thriving in her children’s education and care studies, Melanie’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of education.

“I would love to be someone who supports my community and Indigenous peoples and their future,” she says.

Find out more about gaining your ACT Senior Secondary Certificate.