A lifelong interest in helping others

When it came time to think about university, Lily knew that she wanted to study something that would allow her to help people.

“Social work always stood out to me,” she says. “Being able to help others is a big value of mine.”

Growing up on NSW’s south coast, Lily was always close to her younger sister Erin. This was just one of the reasons she was happy to discover she could pursue her passions at the University of Wollongong (UOW) Shoalhaven.

“I can live at home and still access the same supports, keep in contact with friends and family, and access the surrounding environment I grew up in.”

The beauty of the campus is a bonus: “I like that it is surrounded by bushland. It’s a lovely campus that is relaxing to study in."

The mix of online and on-campus study works well for Lily, who enjoys the convenience of being able to study from home and the benefits of connecting with other students.

“I do like being on campus with all of my peers, all in the same classroom.”

With a year left of her degree, Lily is starting to think about what’s next.

"I would like a career where I can help people achieve the best outcome,” she says. “I’m not sure exactly what field that is but I just want the best for people.”

“I’ve always been interested in advocacy for those with disability, those who rely on government systems for support, and making sure people get what they need to live comfortably.”

Degrees in the social sciences provide students with the knowledge and skills to make a difference and help to create more inclusive societies.

“I’m interested in policy development and advocating for policies that promote inclusivity of disability,” says Lily, also highlighting the lack of awareness and understanding of disability across the broader public.

“I do feel there is a lack of awareness in society about the different types of disabilities, because every disability is different,” she says. “International Day of People with Disability is really important for raising awareness, recognising people with disability, and promoting inclusivity for everyone in education, employment, sport, and more.”

That sentiment is reflected in this year’s International Day of People with Disability theme: Fostering disability inclusive societies for advancing social progress.

With her degree, Lily is hoping to be able to contribute to this and encourage others to work together and improve life for everyone.  

“I wanted to study social work because I wanted to gain enough knowledge to help people. One of the most important things I’ve learnt about this degree is that it’s very rewarding, being able to support people to achieve what they desire."