Nikky achieves her veterinarian dreams with ATP

But thanks to TAFE Queensland’s Adult Tertiary Preparation (11240NAT) (ATP) program, her unwavering determination, and the support of an extraordinary teacher, Nikky transformed her life and career.

“When I was younger, all I wanted was to be a veterinarian, but the pressures of high school and university entry seemed insurmountable. So, I decided to take a break from study, work full-time, and explore the world,” she said.

Nikky then spent several years in real estate marketing and administration, supplementing her income with retail work.

“While the jobs paid the bills, I was left feeling unfulfilled. I wasn’t happy at work and felt quite trapped,” Nikky explained.

Before enrolling at TAFE Queensland, Nikky visited a wildlife conservation park that reignited her passion for animal care and rekindled her dream of becoming a vet.

Her journey back to education began with a simple question - how does an adult get into university?

Her research led her to TAFE Queensland’s ATP program, which offered the prerequisites for her dream university course.

“TAFE Queensland provided me with the fastest, most flexible, and affordable pathway. I could structure my studies around work, and the enrolment process was incredibly straightforward,” Nikky recalls.

In just one year of condensed learning, Nikky mastered chemistry, biology, pure maths, and English while studying at TAFE Queensland’s Loganlea and South Bank campuses.

As a mature-aged student returning to study, she faced many hurdles, none more significant than overcoming exam-related anxiety, a challenge linked to her undiagnosed Autism and ADHD (AuDHD).

“I struggled immensely with exams, often panicking and misreading questions. It was a carryover from high school, and I didn’t realise how deeply it impacted me,” she said.

This is where the power of TAFE Queensland’s hands-on training shone, with Nikky crediting the support she received from her Pure Maths teacher, Kerryn Hayman, and TAFE Queensland's Student Support Services for her career transformation.

“Kerryn recognised my struggles, and during one exam, she saw I was panicking. So, she pulled me aside and asked me to read the questions out loud, and that moment changed everything - I could think clearly, complete the exam, and pass the course.”

“She was the first educator I ever had who provided accommodations that worked for me, and it made all the difference,” Nikky explained.

TAFE Queensland helped Nikky rediscover her love of learning while guiding her to build the skills and confidence she needed for university.

“Studying ATP prepared me for the self-discipline and accountability required at university. The teachers were incredible, the coursework was engaging, and I met so many inspiring people,” Nikky recalled.

With the educational foundation laid by TAFE Queensland, Nikky excelled at the University of Queensland, earning a Bachelor of Veterinary Science with First Class Honours.

Now, she’s set to begin her new career as a doctor with a prestigious internship at the UQ VETS Small Animal Hospital, where she’ll develop her clinical skills and help mentor the next generation of veterinary students.

Nikky’s journey has come full circle - her struggles have become her strengths, and she’s determined to one day inspire others by combining her love of science and education to return to the classroom as a teacher.

Her story proves that career dreams can become reality with proper support, perseverance, and courage.

“Studying at TAFE Queensland was the beginning of it all. I’ll forever be grateful for the opportunities it gave me and the incredible teachers like Kerryn who believed in me.”

“TAFE Queensland showed me that there’s always a way to achieve your dreams, no matter your age or background - all you need to do is try,” Nikky concluded.