Student Story: Turning a dream into reality

Emily Landgren is studying a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) at Swinburne Online and uses the Country Universities Centre (CUC) Ovens Murray in Wangaratta.  

Why did you choose your degree and what do you enjoy the most about it?
I have worked in early childhood education for 10 years, and becoming a Kindergarten teacher has always been a dream of mine. Even with my years of experience, this degree has allowed me to continue learning and growing—because in this field, the learning never really stops. What I enjoy most is being able to take what I’ve learnt through my studies and put it into practice in my workplace, as well as sharing new knowledge and approaches with my colleagues. 

What has been your learning journey to date?
My journey in early childhood education began when I was 17, starting with a Certificate III. Over time, I have continued to build on that foundation, working my way through further study and different roles in the sector. Each step has strengthened my skills and passion for teaching, and ultimately led me to pursue my Bachelor of Education. 

How important is having the CUC in your local town to you and why?
Having the CUC in my local town is incredibly important to me—I honestly don’t know what I would do without it. It provides a welcoming and quiet study environment away from home, which makes a huge difference to my focus and motivation. The staff are always so supportive, and I’ve also been able to connect with other students who are in similar situations. Being able to share experiences and study strategies with peers has been both reassuring and inspiring.