Imigene sets off on her dream career from high school

"I wanted to study in a high school setting where I could express myself instead of worrying if I was wearing the wrong earrings or something, and I loved that Senior College gave me the freedom to be myself and treated me like an adult," she explained.

TAFE Queensland's Senior College, taught from the Alexandra Hills campus, is perfect for high school students looking for a practical and independent alternative to the traditional system, allowing them to complete their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) and work towards gaining an Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR).

It's also great for students who know what career they want to pursue because the teachers tailor individual study programs towards their needs and career goals, helping them plan for their future after high school.

"The teachers are so dedicated and genuinely care. They helped me learn, made me feel safe and my confidence grew because they focused purely on my academic achievement, not what I was wearing," said Imigene.

"And because I knew I wanted to work in real estate after high school, my teachers helped me prepare to get the job of my dreams in an industry I'm passionate about."

Imigene also cites Senior College's small class sizes and the flexibility of her timetable for helping her graduate job-ready, as she was able to take advantage of studying for a Certificate of Retailing while still in high school.

"For the first time in my studying life, I could go to school, express myself, feel accepted by my teachers and be in a classroom with like-minded classmates in a flexible environment."

"And because I wasn’t in class every day of the week, I could use my spare day to study for my certificate, which was great for learning vital sales skills to get into real estate."

Imigene, whose enthusiasm and energy saw her graduate in 2021 as a Senior College School Captain, is now proudly working at LJ Hooker in Cleveland, something she credits Senior College for giving her the confidence that she needed.

"I wouldn't have graduated or gotten a job straight out of high school without the support I got from Senior College. The flexibility and mentoring helped me to become a realtor which wouldn't have been possible without my amazing teachers."

The combination of her enthusiasm for the real estate industry and the confidence she gained from Senior College has paid dividends, as she was promoted within two weeks of starting her role.

"I've wanted to sell houses because I have good people skills, and I love working with people from different backgrounds. There are so many career opportunities within the real estate industry if you work hard and are good at it."

She credits Senior College for aligning her education to her passion and giving her the knowledge, skills, motivation and confidence to begin working full time.

"I'd encourage everyone to follow their passion. By doing high school differently, I was set up for success. I was able to learn in a way that suited me while being supported and encouraged by my teachers and classmates to pursue my dream career," concluded Imigene.