Celebrating Carers at UTS: Chau Au
Education student
I fell into a caring role at six years old. Growing up, one of my parents spent a lot of time in hospital as they suffer from mental illness. When I was 12, another family member, Oscar*, was also diagnosed with mental illness and I’ve been caring for him ever since.
Pursue your passion and ambitions, and tailor the opportunities that are out there to suit your needs.
I initially enrolled in a law degree but ended up switching to primary education. I like to help out in the community, and as a teacher I’ll be able to understand and support children who might have similar experiences to mine. I want to be a mentor and role model for them.
Oscar often comes to uni with me; while I’m in class, he’ll be at a computer or study space nearby. He was really unwell one semester, which meant I couldn’t complete a two-week practicum and had to withdraw from one of my subjects. At the end of the day, my caring responsibilities come first.
I tell other carers that it doesn’t matter how long it takes to complete your degree. If you can't study full-time, try part-time or defer.
*Names and details have been changed for privacy reasons.