Coming full circle
For Morgan Cotter, TAFE Queensland was where it all began, and now she feels privileged to be able to help First Nations students get the most out of their study journey.
Morgan recently took on the role of Indigenous Outcomes Officer for TAFE Queensland’s Brisbane region, a move that she describes as coming full circle after first stepping through the doors as a teen studying her senior school certificate and in desperate need of motivation and guidance.
“If it wasn’t for TAFE Queensland, I wouldn’t have finished school. It gave me a real sense of pride,” Morgan said.
Morgan went on to gain qualifications in community services and is now thriving in her new role where she gets to help her mob achieve their study and career goals.
“I want to show what’s possible. I do know what people are going through and that it is possible to change their circumstances.
“The first step is scary but once you rip the band-aid off, the support for our mob at TAFE is pretty good,” Morgan said.
TAFE Queensland has a range of student support services available for First Nations students, including assistance with career and employment advice, choosing the right course or pathway, financial assistance, funding opportunities, accommodation, and learning and study support.
“I have an open door policy, come in and have a yarn and know I’ll always have your back,” she said.
“Officers just like me are positioned all across Queensland to provide tailored support designed to meet the unique needs of First Nations students. We can provide assistance with enrolment processes, Centrelink ABSTUDY enquiries, tutor support, referrals to other community service providers and personal support – whatever you need to ensure your success.”
About Morgan
I was born and raised on Quandamooka country. I have strong blood lines leading their way onto Gamilaraay country from my mum, grandparents and great grandparents. Mum was taken from pop at a young age and was raised the white way. Because of this, she didn’t connect with her dad until 2 weeks before his passing. I hope to reconnect with family and country someday soon.