Everyone can Uni

RMIT University has a raft of initiatives to boost university pathways for everyone including the 'Schools Network Access Program' and 'I Belong', targeting school students in regions of Melbourne and Victoria that are typically under-represented in university enrolments.

The programs ensure greater engagement across priority cohorts and build a diverse student population and inclusive campus experience, in line with the Australian Universities Accord. 

Among the participants is proud Aboriginal woman Claire Brown, who was raised in Bairnsdale in regional Victoria, and never considered finishing high school.  

Now, Claire has become the first person in her family to start a university degree, thanks to RMIT’s ‘I Belong’ program, graduating with an RMIT Bachelor of Education (Primary).

"Growing up, I knew I was treated a bit differently, being Indigenous. My parents didn’t finish high school, and knowing that it would be a lot harder for me, university just seemed a bit out of reach for me," Brown says.

"The RMIT program helped me decide what I wanted to do. Just knowing that I have the support and that I'm not alone has been really helpful.

"I’ve learned that background and circumstances and where you come from doesn't matter. Even if someone says you can’t go to university, don’t listen to them. You can do it, if you want to."

RMIT University Associate Director Student Equity Lara Rafferty says, "We know education can open the door to formative experiences and endless opportunities. That's why RMIT is continuing to provide pathways to students of all backgrounds, through our range of equity access initiatives."  

Image by Frans Van Heerden