Jacque of all trades adds IT to CV
She’s a mother, a wife, a full-time worker, part-time studier, personal trainer and runs a home wellbeing business and not-for-profit organisation.
Most would be exhausted just from reading that list, but Jacqueline Hull, 48, takes all of those responsibilities and tasks in her stride.
Jacqueline is currently studying a Diploma of Information and Communications Technology at CQUniversity’s Brisbane campus and said that she had implemented a number of strategies to ensure that she had a good balance on all of her tasks.
“For uni, I take on one unit at a time, so I don’t feel overwhelmed,” the mature age student explained.
“I learnt very quickly what time of the day I could focus the best, so the early mornings are my dedicated study times, followed by a gym workout before I start my work day,” she said.
Jacqueline works full-time for a member-owned bank in the IT division as a Change and Incident Coordinator.
“My husband has been my backbone during my study, taking on many tasks at home and I've always communicated my schedule with him.”
With a blended family of four sons aged 26, 25, 12 and 9, two daughter in-laws and a three-year old granddaughter, there’s never a dull moment in Jacqueline’s life.
“Every Saturday is a day to spend quality time with the family and I make sure my employer knows my lecture and tutorial schedule so they can fully support me where possible,” she said.
“I eat nutritious meals, I lean into student support services like counselling when I feel the need and I keep a great line of communication with my lecturers/tutors.”
Originally from New Zealand, Jacqueline is the first in her immediate family to go to university.
“I enrolled in this course because I wanted to finish what I did not complete over 10 years ago,” she explained.
“I wanted to return to a profession that is continuously evolving and challenging me. ICT will also always provide opportunity for growth and development and a decent pay packet.”
Jacquleine is now in her final unit of study.
“It has been such a positive experience for the most part. I have no hesitation recommending CQUniversity to my friends and family.”
Jacqueline offered some useful tips to future ICT students.
“Write down any concerns you may have before enrolling and reach out to Student Support Services and they will guide you.
“Share your ‘reason why’ with your family, closest friends and employer so you can get their full support during your study time and know that you must compromise with your family to ensure you are giving them what they need too.
“Curveballs create unnecessary chaos but necessary character.
“You will experience many unexpected moments during your journey, but they will strengthen you and create resilience.”
