First-year education student Jessica Van Gaans said it was a big relief when she was offered her place at the end of 2013 as part of the university’s Early Achievers Program. 

At school she was involved in the community justice committee, was vice arts captain and choir captain, as well as volunteered in the community with the Smith Family and helped with children’s liturgy at St Aloysius and St Columba’s schools. 

Ms Van Gaans said she had wanted to be a teacher for a long time.

“In school I liked everything, so being a teacher was a good way to continue doing all those things, including music and art, and getting to work with children which I love,” Ms Van Gaans said. 

She knew she’d apply for the program when she first heard about it at Loreto College. 

“It was just good to know I was in. I didn’t have to stress about what university I’d go to and what course I’d do and where I’d live, because I already had my place,” she said.

Ms Van Gaans still had to study to achieve the required ATAR, but once she achieved that she knew she was already in. 

“It took so much stress off,” she said.

Applications are open for 2015 entrants and close on October 20. For more information, visit www.acu.edu.au/eap

nicole.cairns@fairfaxmedia.com.au