Overcoming obstacles to overachieving
Kellie Webb is living proof that if you want something badly enough and you’re willing to put in the effort, you can achieve anything.
The Rockhampton mother went from struggling to pass in high school, to not only excelling - but graduating with the highest grade possible at university.
Currently working at CQUniversity as an Instructional Designer, Ms Webb was recently awarded the 2023 School of Education and the Arts Medal.
“The prestigious prize was awarded to recognise Kellie’s outstanding academic achievement in the Bachelor of Digital Media, which she completed between 2018 and 2022,” Head of Digital Media, Associate Professor Steven Pace said.
“Kellie is a deserving recipient of the School Medal. She exemplifies the qualities of professionalism, citizenship and lifelong learning. Digital Media teaching staff are very proud of her achievements.”
Ms Webb said she was ‘shocked’ to win the award.
“I didn’t know it existed – turns out it’s kind of a big deal! It felt amazing to have my effort and dedication recognised in such an impressive way,” she said.
Assoc Prof Pace said Ms Webb graduated with a “remarkable” grade point average of 7.00 – the highest score possible – having achieved high distinction grades in every unit of study.
“What makes Kellie’s achievement even more noteworthy is her unconventional path to success,” he said.
Ms Webb's academic journey began with a below-average performance in high school, but she flourished when she discovered her passion at CQUniversity.
“I had a rough childhood while battling several mental health conditions, I also lived in a small mining town and my high school didn’t cater to someone creative like me - it was more focused on trades and TAFE,” Ms Webb explained.
“What changed when I came to CQU was I was doing something that I thoroughly enjoyed, I could do it at my own pace (part-time) and it was flexible around my other life commitments such as parenting and working.”
Ms Webb is the first in her family to graduate from university and completed the digital media course on a part-time basis under what Assoc Prof Pace described as challenging circumstances, while deftly balancing work, motherhood and study.
“Eager to develop her skills to a professional level, Kellie actively sought out opportunities for work placements during her course. She conducted engaging digital media workshops for visiting school students, maintained equipment as a digital media technician and created captivating video content for orientation programs,” he said.
Alongside her studies, work placements and family duties, Ms Webb also found time to support others in her community.
“She worked as a volunteer with several community organisations during her course, and she continues to do so today.”
Since 2019, Ms Webb has been an active contributor to the Gracemere Branch of RSL Queensland, creating photographic and video content of events for distribution to members and other RSL Branches.
“She also creates graphic design works such as posters and brochures for use within RSL Queensland, in schools and in the wider community.
Ms Webb said while it was challenging learning how to be a university student, she took advantage of all the services available to students, such as the Academic Learning Centre (ALC), the accessibility and inclusion program, as well as teacher support.
“I also kept an open mind when it came to opportunities and saying yes to new experiences, so I got to participate in some amazing volunteer work as well as paid employment through CQUniversity,” she said.
“Special mention to Associate Lecturer Michelle Roberts who was not only my lecturer but also my mentor, without her support I wouldn’t have had such success in my degree.”
Proving that she’s a high achiever while studying at CQU, Ms Webb received a CQUniCares Stage and Audio Scholarship, a CQUniCares Scott Williams Foundation Scholarship and she was also recognised by two academic prizes including the Digital Media Adobe Awards and Rockhampton Community Service Club Digital Media Prize.
“Kellie’s journey from a struggling high school student to an award-winning student and now graduate is a testament to her dedication and exceptional talent,” Assoc Prof Pace said.
“Her story is an inspiration for other students who encounter challenges on their path to academic success.”
