The western way: Maria’s journey to teaching

Bachelor of Education (P-12) student Maria Christou has been immersed in the west of Melbourne since she was born – and, becoming the recipient of Western Chances scholarships, she found her bonds to the area only strengthening. Maria describes how her path through school and studying at VU has led to her being on the cusp of commencing a career in teaching.

“I study a Bachelor of Education (P-12) at VU.

“I absolutely love my course and could not imagine studying anything else at this point of my life – it caters for my interests and learning style as it is very immersive and collaborative.

“I am consistently working closely with my lecturers at VU to achieve personal goals and learning outcomes in order to extend myself as an educator.

“I believe that studying at VU has given me the opportunity to do more than merely get my degree.

“Rather, I believe I have developed a strong sense of community and belonging, and have established great connections and opportunities along the way.”

All roads led west

“I have lived in the west of Melbourne for the entirety of my life, as well as schooling and tertiary studies.

“I have established a very strong sense of belonging in the west ­– there is a genuine sense of community and networking.

“I’ve been involved in a range of projects at VU that specifically focus on the west, and our unique sense of cultural inclusion, belonging and community.

“The west is the home for diversity, and I believe we are very proud in promoting our unique backgrounds and cultural differences.”

Given the chance to succeed

“I was nearing the end of Year 12 in 2020 when my course counsellor approached me regarding Western Chances; she believed I was a great candidate to receive the scholarship.

“I was ecstatic when I was told that my application was successful for my future university endeavours.

“As a young person nearing tertiary study, I began to feel as though that everything was falling into place in respect to my education journey.”

Inspiring learning experiences

“I studied at a different university prior to VU, but after switching I soon discovered that the VU Block Model® helped me immensely when working while studying.

“It also keeps me engaged with relevant and up-to-date content, invaluable lecturers, and like-minded peers.

“One of my favourite aspects of the course is having the opportunity to undergo placements at schools I am familiar with, reconnecting with past teachers and staff members at the schools I once attended.

“This helps me expand my education and network in the west for future career opportunities.”

Burdens eased & networks built

“The support I receive from Western Chances allows me to commit to my uni studies without the inevitable burden of costs and resource expenses.

“It has given me the opportunity to excel without the stress of costs, and provided me with chances to promote my talent and share my successes as a scholarship receiver.

“I am forever grateful that my counsellor identified me as a student that would benefit from the scholarship, as it has given me equitable opportunities not only to succeed, but to continue furthering and refining my skills as a student and teacher.

“Western Chances has expanded my network and allowed me to achieve success in my studies and personal life.”

Onwards to a future in teaching

“I believe that my VU course has and will continue to support me in reaching my specific career goals, as there are always opportunities for pre-service teachers to further their skills in career workshops, volunteer work as well as general communication between lecturers and course admins.

“In the next few years, I am excited to begin my teaching career with the skills, friendships and knowledge I have collated during my studies at VU.

“I have various career goals regarding leadership in education, as well as delving into my passion for youth and adolescent mental health through further studies in the next coming years.”

Interested in a rewarding career as a teacher?

VU is one of only a few universities in the country to offer the Bachelor of Education P-12 course, equipping you to teach at any level.

Find out more about our education courses.

Want more info on our partnership with Western Chances? We’re proud to be able to collaborate on our shared commitment to enable young people in the west facing barriers to reach their potential.

Read more about our partnership with Western Chances.