While most Year 12 students are diligently navigating the final stretch of secondary school, Rhys Bachmann is already charting his path to university.
Rhys, a student at Mt Maria College Mitchelton, achieved a remarkable feat, passing two university subjects while also completing Year 11 last year.
This accomplishment has guaranteed him an offer at the Australian Catholic University (ACU) in 2025, opening doors to a dual degree in paramedicine and nursing.
Rhys' university success was made possible thanks to ACU's Equity Pathways Team and its innovative program - Uni Step Up for First Nations students. The program empowers students to enrol in university subjects alongside their school curriculum to provide a unique opportunity to experience tertiary education before completing Year 12.
Rhys said ACU's Uni Step Up program was a great opportunity to explore new horizons and discover his potential.
“The small class sizes and helpful student ambassadors and lecturers provided me with invaluable insights into university life and equipped me with the skills I need to succeed in higher education," he said.
“Now, with a guaranteed spot in nursing and paramedicine, I am empowered to make an impact, not just in my own life, but also the lives of others.
“I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity, and I look forward to pursuing my dreams at ACU."
Mt Maria College Principal Luke Reed said, “Rhys' resilience, tenacity, and unwavering positivity have been an inspiration to the whole College community".
“His success serves as a testament to the transformative power of education and the incredible potential of our students," he said.
“Rhys has remained steadfast in his pursuit of knowledge and excellence.
“As he embarks on this new chapter at university, we eagerly anticipate the remarkable contributions he will undoubtedly make to his chosen field and beyond."
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Year 12 student Rhys Bachmann ©Brisbane Catholic Education, Mt Maria College, Mitchelton (2024).
About ACU's Uni Step Up program:
Uni Step-Up is a chance for students to experience university life by studying two first-year units while still in senior secondary school.
Students get a head start at university, develop university level study skills, and discover more about their potential degree.
Uni Step-Up is delivered in two formats at ACU. An on-campus program is delivered during the winter and summer school holidays, and an online program for regional students.