Q&A WITH HOLLY SUMMERS

Holly Summers is set to graduate from both high school and TAFE this year. Already half way through her Certificate III in Animal Studies, the 17-year-old is one step closer to her dream career. This week we sit down with Holly to get an insight on how she manages to juggle her busy lifestyle

QWhat made you want to study at TAFE while still in school?

A:I decided to study while at school in order to go into a field I’m passionate about and work while furthering my studies in university. I wanted to do something more specific that would set me up for a career. I’ve always loved animals and have a passion for them. I am in Year 12 at Pacific Pines State High School and wanted to start focusing on what’s next. It’s great that I can take my career that one step further. The closest class to animal studies in school is biology. Completing my certificate will help me get into university and reach my career goals.

QWhat has been your favourite part about your course?

A:Definitely the practical work. It’s amazing to be able to apply

what we’ve learnt. I went to the Animal Welfare League Queensland where we had to do volunteer hours. I loved it so much that I still volunteer there. You can choose which area you’d like to work; some people choose to care for the cats, some work with dogs and others work in the vet clinics. I chose to work with the dogs. We feed, walk, care for and clean up after them. It was so beneficial to not only have a comprehensive understanding of the theory but knowing how to implement that into a real-life work situation. I also enjoy the independence.

QWhat inspired you to want to work with animals?

A:I have always had a passion for animals and I genuinely love being around them. I am from Bundjalung country and Aboriginal people have an

amazing connection to the land. I try and implement the old way of life into my own whenever I can. Our ancestors respected and looked after the animals and the environment. I think that’s powerful and I aspire to continue that.

QHow do you cope juggling both school and course work?

A:It’s not easy, but they both offer lots of support. When I need time to focus on TAFE work, school is really understanding and give me the time to do it. I also have really supportive teachers at TAFE. It’s extremely hard work but there’s lots of support and the friends I’ve made have helped a lot.

There is one other girl in my certificate course that’s still in high school so I’m not alone. Most aspects of TAFE learning are different to school in an exciting way.

QWhat are your future plans?

A:Next year I will have a gap year. I plan to travel through Costa Rica and Africa and then I will go to university to study a bachelor of science and marine biology. I want to go on to be a conservationist and train dogs to help track down endangered animals.

QWhat advice would you give to someone considering studying while in school?

A:I would recommend taking the leap and going for it. It’s an amazing way to further your knowledge and skills and it will definitely give you an edge in the workforce. I feel prepared for my future and I feel like I’m a step ahead because I studied at TAFE while in school. The knowledge you gain and the friendships you form are absolutely invaluable.