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OP1 student to study Paramedic Science
As top of Year 12 chemistry at Suncoast Christian College and with an OP1, Kristi Browne knew she could take her passion for medicine anywhere.
The Palmwoods 17-year-old decided her future lay in a Bachelor of Paramedic Science at the University of the Sunshine Coast, starting on 22 February.
The degree is the third most popular at USC for new students this semester.
“My goal is to work as a paramedic on the Sunshine Coast before continuing studies to become a doctor,” Kristi said.
“I considered a Brisbane degree but the USC one will suit me much better. It’s more practical and I want to use my studies to work in the real world. I’d prefer to be here, actually helping.
“I also want a job so I can put myself through medicine later and my parents won’t have to.”
Kristi’s parents Darin and Fiona Browne were among the many Queenslanders financially devastated by the collapse of the Storm Financial company.
“That’s why the USC scholarship will really help,” said Kristi, who is delighted at her parents’ pride in how hard she worked at school.
She will receive one of the University’s Renouf Family Scholarships for 2010 at a scholarship ceremony on campus on Monday 15 February. Worth $12,000, the scholarship recognises academic excellence and financial hardship.
Kristi said she was excited about following an ambition she’d had since age two.
“When I see ambulances I wonder what’s happening, what I could do,” she said. "I love learning about how things work and am really looking forward to coming to USC. I’m expecting challenges but I’ve already got enough self-motivation.”
— Julie Gatehouse