Kat Kranz, a Bachelor of Social Work student at La Trobe University’s Mildura campus, proves anything is possible.
The former hairdresser was involved in a serious car crash in 2011, which left her with an Acquired Brain Injury. She was told she’d struggle to walk and face significant barriers to further learning.
After eight months of intensive rehabilitation, Kat returned home and adjusted to her new life with the support of Transport Accident Commission (TAC) coordinators. They assisted with the recovery, connection to services and various appointments as well as family support.
Now, 15 years on, Kat reflects with deep gratitude on the healthcare, social work and disability support professionals who helped rebuild her life after the accident, crediting their guidance and support as instrumental to her recovery.
“I have the highest regard for what the TAC did for myself and family,” Kat said.
“I would love to be that inspiration for someone else and what better chance do I have than now?”
Kat sold her hair salon and returned to SuniTAFE, completing a Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping and a Diploma of Community Services.
Determined to keep learning and be challenged, Kat enrolled part-time in a Bachelor of Social Work at La Trobe’s Mildura campus, while working full-time at a community organisation.
“It is a lot to manage with study, work and life in between, however with determination and great time management, it’s possible,” Kat said.
Kat’s story embodies La Trobe’s commitment to expanding educational opportunity in regional Victoria, ensuring people can access the skills, qualifications and support they need to build meaningful careers without leaving their communities.
Dr Sandy Connor, Mildura Head of Campus, said Open Day on 12 August would showcase the many study options available to people looking to start, change or advance their careers.
“Prospective students attending our Open Day will hear stories like Kat’s that demonstrate how flexible pathways, industry-connected learning and regional study options can open doors to new careers at any stage of life,” Dr Connor said.
Supporting lifelong learning is a key focus of La Trobe’s regional campuses, with Open Day providing a one-stop destination for prospective students to explore undergraduate and postgraduate opportunities, pathways, scholarships and career-focused study options.
Among those accessing world-class study options from Mildura, combining the flexibility of online learning with personalised support of a local campus community, is Master of Education student Aleesha Tung.
Aleesha is a primary school teacher in Ouyen with a Bachelor of Education and Professional Certificate in Positive Education under her belt. With aspirations of moving into a leadership role, Aleesha saw a Master’s qualification as the perfect next step.
“I chose La Trobe as the university is well-known for being supportive and flexible. As a full-time teacher with two young children, the option to study online when it suited me was a game changer,” Aleesha said.
“The online experience was great. I could work at my own pace; had access to all the resources I needed and could still collaborate via online tutorials and discussions. Tutors were quick to respond and always helpful when I had questions.”
Having attended previous Open Days as a prospective student and worked as student ambassador in her undergraduate, Aleesha knows the value of exploring study options firsthand and speaking directly with staff and current students.
“I loved the atmosphere and the chance to explore the university and ask questions. It definitely helped inform my decision.,” Aleesha said.
- Mildura’s Open Day will be held at the campus on Wednesday 12 August, 3-6pm.
- Register for Open Day here.
