Inspiring stories emerge at Gold Coast graduation

Stories of success will be uplifted with a University Medal to be presented to Bachelor of Health and Human Sciences (Honours) graduate Jana Joveljic for academic excellence.

“I am honoured to receive this award. It is lovely to be recognised after having studied and worked so hard,” said Ms Joveljic.

Since finishing her degree, Ms Joveljic has completed the NSW Health graduate program and worked within the medical and emergency wards at The Tweed Hospital. Ms Joveljic currently works as a cosmetic nurse and co-directs an education program training nurses to work in the cosmetic field.

“Cosmetic nursing is a fantastic career as it blends the practical and theoretical components of nursing with the application of artistry and creativity. It is a very exciting industry to be a part of and has allowed me to travel the world, learning from the best,” she said.

For Bachelor of Psychological Science graduate Amy Faulkner, graduation marks the start of a new chapter. “I’m excited and nervous considering I’m the first person in my immediate family to finish university,” Mrs Faulkner said.

As a mother to three children diagnosed with ADHD and ASD, Mrs Faulkner said she felt drawn to studying psychology. “I wanted to understand their needs and what I could do to help,” she said.

Mrs Faulkner now plans to undertake an Honours and Masters degree to become a registered psychologist.

“When I’m finished, I want to head to outback Queensland to provide rural and remote psychology services. I know how hard it is to get those services in those areas. We lived in Mount Isa for three years and trying to see specialists in rural and remotes areas is extremely hard.”

Meanwhile, graduation will be a full-circle moment for Bachelor of Business in Convention and Event Management student Sophie Fischer, who has transitioned from being a student to alumna to a staff member working in Southern Cross University’s corporate events team.

“It’s nice to know that the hard work has paid off because my degree has definitely opened a lot of doors for me,” Ms Fischer said.

While undertaking her studies, Ms Fischer received the Twin Towns Community Foundation Scholarship for students who demonstrate academic excellence which she said offered not just financial assistance but also an important accolade on her CV.

“It helped me in terms of my resumé, showing to employers that that was an award that I received, which I was extremely grateful for,” Ms Fischer said.

Our graduates will be inspired by incredible occasional speakers including Member for Currumbin Laura Gerber MP, Gold Coast Hospital Foundation CEO Ben Cox and Rugby Union Players’ Association CEO Justin Harrison.

Southern Cross University Vice President (Engagement) Ben Roche said each graduate should be proud of their achievements.

“It has been wonderful to welcome back graduation ceremonies this year after many disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We are fortunate to be able to join together to acknowledge this milestone for our graduates.

“Many inspiring stories have come to light this year about our students and their accomplishments. We look forward to continuing with them on their journey as they join our global alumni community of over 70,000 graduates.”

Southern Cross University’s Gold Coast graduation ceremonies will take place on Tuesday 13 December 2022 at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Media contact: Southern Cross University media and content team, content@scu.edu.au