Degrees Of Determination

When they crossed the graduation stage in Mackay this week, Shelly and Julieanne not only celebrated their academic achievements but also the support they received through the BHP/BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) Scholarship program that helped make their success possible.

Bachelor of Nursing graduate Michelle ‘Shelly’ Erikson and Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) graduate Julieanne Bergmann joined hundreds of fellow graduates when they officially received their testamurs on Thursday (8 May).

But if it weren’t for the help of their BHP/BMA Scholarships, neither may have attended the ceremony.

"As a mature-aged student, I never thought I would have the opportunity to achieve a degree,” Shelly explained.

“Being able to wear my cap and gown and be a role model for my children is extremely special," she said.

A mum of four children with no family support in Mackay, Shelly said she relied heavily on both her husband and the CQUniCares BHP/BMA Community Scholarship funding to help her through her studies.

"The Scholarship was extremely beneficial for myself and my family as it helped financially with the costs involved, mainly of unpaid placement hours,” she explained.

“It also ensured we could put food on the table while I couldn’t work – I am so very grateful for the support.”

Now employed as a Registered Nurse at Mackay Base Hospital, Shelly has secured a postgraduate position in the Child and Adolescent Unit, where she is completing a transition support program in acute paediatric nursing.

Fellow graduate and BHP Future of Work Program Scholarship recipient Julieanne Bergmann joined Shelly at the Mackay graduation ceremony, where she was presented with her Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) degree.

Julieanne said the scholarship aligned perfectly with her goals of remaining in the Mackay region and ultimately contributing to the mental health workforce in regional Queensland.

"The journey to becoming a Registered Psychologist requires significant financial investment, and I am very grateful for BHP’s support,” Julieanne said.

“It has taken me another step closer to achieving my goal."

Julieanne is currently working at Queensland Psychology Group, supporting the clinical team and clients during intake and ongoing administration, and plans to enrol in a Masters-level program soon.

She said CQU's Honours program stood out because of its strong national reputation, online accessibility, cultural context and the focus on regional research topics.

"I am looking forward to sharing my graduation moment with my family and peers and thanking my employers, the College of Psychology faculty and BHP for their support along the way."

BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) Asset President Adam Lancey said BMA partnered with CQU and provided scholarships to help build healthy, resilient, connected communities.

“The scholarships create opportunities for regional people to contribute to their home communities and address some of the skill shortages in Central Queensland.”

Both graduates are examples of how scholarship support and a quality education can transform lives and strengthen regional communities.

‍

Shelly Erikson celebrates her graduation with a Bachelor of Nursing, which is made possible thanks to the support of the BHP/BMA Community Scholarship and her family's unwavering belief in her dreams. Photos supplied

Julieanne Bergmann proudly receives her Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours), with support from the BHP Future of Work Program, helping her take the next step in her goal to support mental health in regional Queensland

‍