Aleara Pearce

Global Studies, 2020

Growing up in regional NSW meant experiencing the world in a way that many people do not. In 2019 I moved to Canberra for my degree, and for the first time in perhaps twelve years experienced regular rainfall. Not only that, but I found all the opportunities that were in the city so plentiful in comparison to my hometown community. It made me realise that there is still much to be done to make a brighter future for all.

At the time, I only had a vague idea of where I wanted to be and what I was interested in, so I found my Global Studies degree a perfect opportunity to explore further. It was wonderful, being exposed to some many new ideas and issues relating to the world I lived in. That the choices that are made now, impact where we end up further down the track. I took that as an important piece of information, as well as an important life lesson.

As I graduate, I look forward to facing the challenges that lie ahead and now feel a little more capable in overcoming them. And I will do so as a proud Barkandji woman.