When Naomi found out she was the recipient of a Dunmore Lang College/Macquarie University Regional and Rural Scholarship she couldn’t believe she was about to embark on a university degree after dropping out of high school.
It was life changing.
Now four years on, Naomi was awarded the University Medal, the highest postgraduate honour awarded to a student and is proof that finding your passion, having financial stability and being a part of a supportive, vibrant community leads to success. We sat down with Naomi and asked her to share a little about her journey.
Caption: Ms Louise Mason, Deputy Chancellor Macquarie University presents the Macquarie University Medal for Academic Excellence to Ms Naomi Fenton
Why don’t you introduce yourself?
My family are farmers originally from Moree, although I spent a lot of time on the Central Coast about an hour from Sydney. I struggled with mental health while growing up and dropped out of high school before eventually feeling I was ready to study again and applied to Macquarie University.
Why did you study Psychology?
Because it would enable me to make a meaningful difference in peoples’ lives. I was also influenced by my volunteering experience in Uganda and by the positive impact of psychological therapy when I was younger.
How did the accommodation scholarship assist with your study and access to education?
It was life changing. Being around other students meant I always had friends to study with and motivate me. It also meant I could afford to study in Sydney plus having meals provided saved time and money as did the five-minute walk to class (somehow I still managed to be late!)
What were the highlights at DLC?
DLC is a super supportive environment with a lot of diversity in culture, sexuality, gender and ability. College fostered an atmosphere that celebrated, welcomed, and respected those differences.
I held several leadership roles through student committees and becoming a Residential Adviser where I supported other students and helped to shape the culture of the college.
Any advice for students starting university?
Stay balanced, prioritise study and down time. Take care of yourself and be self-compassionate. Don’t lose sight of your values and goals. And remain persistent, even in the face of adversity.
This story was first published in the Dunmore Lang College NGARRA MAGAZINE.