Arts

"The longer I've been here, the more I'm falling in love with Perth"

One of the main reasons why I decided to study in ECU is because I wanted a new and modern university atmosphere. I also heard the teaching quality is good here and that's important for my development and learning in university. I also chose to study psychology at ECU because this uni focuses on research as well as theory and I have an interest in becoming a researcher in the future.

I would like say to someone who is thinking about studying at ECU is grab this opportunity you will not regret it. Perth is beautiful, there's so much to do and so much to see and ECU has amazing opportunities, helpful lecturers, and beautiful campuses. If you ever feel like you're homesick, join a club or association it will make you feel like you have a sense of belonging. The longer I've been here, the more I’m falling in love with Perth.

"It's a real privilege to be elected to parliament, and I have to pinch myself because I didn't plan to be here"

Back in high school, I didn't want to be a politician – I thought politicians were these elites. My Mum used to work in a bar called The Albany Club, and I would go in there to see her after school and I'd see politicians and business owners. They were the big wigs in town: they made the big decisions and they made more money than us. I just never thought I would end up in parliament. Parliament was up on the hill and I was down here in state housing.

I chose the degree – and that was a life-changing choice. There are a lot of people who say 'don't do this or that', but it's usually the people who put themselves out who get to where they want eventually. Education is so important, because it offers direction to people. Follow what you like doing, throw yourself into it and be passionate about it – that's the main thing.