AT La Trobe University’s Shepparton Campus, Ebony Woolstencroft, a proud Bangerang woman and a second-year Bachelor of Nursing student embodies the spirit of determination and balance.
Ebony’s path to nursing began in 2002 with a Cert 4 from GOTAFE’s Nursing Indigenous Pathway. Life, however, took her away from nursing, only for her to return as a mother, eager to juggle her studies with raising two young children.
Facing challenges head-on, Ebony’s dream of midwifery steered her towards alternative educational routes. With support from the Future Students Team at La Trobe, she found her footing in a nurturing environment tailored for mature-age students.
Her active participation as a RISE mentor and La Trobe Ambassador, coupled with her involvement in Indigenous Student Services, has been pivotal, leading to both personal growth and professional opportunities. Ebony’s journey has been marked by resilience, and has seen her overcome various challenges, she encourages students to keep pursuing all opportunities and utilise supports available.
Shepparton campus has provided an important sense of belonging, and this personal connection has deepened Ebony’s educational experience, enriching it beyond just an academic focus.
Ebony’s work and life experiences have been an asset to her studies, offering her unique perspectives and depth. The university’s manageable schedule of classes has facilitated a smooth balancing act between her studies, work, and family life.
Looking ahead, midwifery gleams in her future plans, with ambitions to explore Postgraduate Midwifery through the future employment.
