After years of hard work and determination, hundreds of students graduated from their studies at the Central Queensland University (CQU) graduation ceremony last week, but one scholar stole the show.
Sherrie Price, a 29-year-old Mackay woman living with Down Syndrome, graduated with Certificates I and II in Information, Digital Media and Technology.
Sherrie says she couldn’t have done it alone, her support network brimming with pride.
“I’ve had lots of support,” she said.
Sherrie’s mother, Judie, says Sherrie’s picked up a lot of supporters throughout her three years of study, but Gerri Kissner assisted Sherrie throughout the whole process.
“Gerri’s been her support worker all the way,” Judie said.
“She’s virtually done the certificate as well.”
Sherrie’s support network came up with many creative ways to deliver course content where Gerri would learn the content herself and format it in a way best suited to Sherrie’s learning.
Discipline Lead for Vocational ICT at CQU Michael Menzies says it’s part of a process called reasonable adjustment.
“We cater for people’s individual needs,” he said.
“We can adjust the method by which the student answers or does their work so it’s within their abilities whilst still meeting the criteria.”
CQU Associate Lecturer Niveditha Dopathi says the course has developed Sherrie’s skills in more ways than one.
“During those three years, I can tell that Sherrie has improved her confidence a lot,” she said.
Judie shared her gratitude towards Gerri, Niveditha, and Michael for all their help throughout Sherrie’s study.
“Lots of communication, brainstorming, and coming up with ideas to help her,” she said.
“She’s taught me that a couple of the keys on the computer aren’t just for decoration.”
Gerri says that this is a huge achievement for Sherrie.
“It shows that people who aren’t in the mainstream can achieve anything with the right support,” she said.
Gerri is also involved in Neighbourhood Watch which Sherrie and Judie assist with, helping over 50s with computer literacy.
Sherrie also partakes in karate, tap dancing, and arts programs with Crossroad Arts, but now turns to every graduate’s favourite part: the job hunt.
L-R Gerri Kissner, CQU Associate Lecturer Niveditha Dopathi, graduate Sherrie Price, her mother Judie Price, and CQU Discipline Lead for Vocational ICT Michael Menzies
