Tuckwell Scholarships Program Director, Dr Fiona Scotney delivers keynote at ANU First Generations Connections Event
I remember being told from very early on that education was expensive and only doctors and lawyers kids went to university, to become doctors and lawyers. Like many of my friends, I thought I would leave school and just find a job, somewhere
Research shows almost half of Australia’s university student population are ‘first in family’ or first-generation students. These students are known to experience a greater number of challenges and barriers throughout their journey through higher education.
“For me going to university was like travelling to a country by yourself, not knowing anyone, not being able to speak the language, and your phone battery dies. It was exciting and terrifying and there were some colourful mishaps, but once I learnt the language, I stayed for 12 years because I knew I had found my place" - Dr Fiona Scotney - event keynote speaker.
Fiona studied, a Bachelor of Arts (English Studies and Art History), Graduate Certificate in Education (Secondary), Master of Arts (English Studies), Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), and Graduate Certificate in Business (Public Sector Management).
The event included a panel and celebrated the stories and journeys of ANU students, alumni, and staff who are in the first generation of their family to attend university. Being at university is a significant achievement, especially when you step out of what is known or expected in your community.
The Connections Event aims to start a conversation, create visibility and foster meaningful connections that support students to “see themselves” at ANU and persist to achieve their aspirations.
Fiona is currently Director of the ANU Tuckwell Scholarship program,
“a role where I can draw on my experiences as a student, a high school teacher, an academic and a public servant to curate programs that build student’s sense of belonging and community.”
Photos: ANU Student Life and Tanya Jones
