How Indigenous Studies helped Miriam find her place


For many years, Miriam questioned her place in the world. As an Aboriginal child growing up in a white community, she never really found a place where she fitted in. It was this desire to learn more about her own heritage and how she fit into the world that led Miriam to a Bachelor of Arts (Indigenous Studies) from UniSA, through Open Universities Australia.

The importance of education

Miriam works as an Aboriginal teaching assistant at a boarding school just north of Perth. She understands the importance of education and, in her work, passes this on to her students so they are able to become leaders in their communities later in life.

“They get a bit of a talk to when they misbehave – get told a few of the realities in life,” says Miriam.

For her students, she knows that an education will help them be able to read contracts regarding land rights, and give them the knowledge to be able to negotiate and make sure their families are given fair treatment. In this way, knowledge is power for both Miriam and her students.

Online options

What appealed most to Miriam about enrolling through Open Universities Australia (OUA), were the options available to her online over an on-campus degree.

By undertaking an online degree, Miriam was able to enrol in the exact same course that was being taught on-campus in South Australia, but could study online from Western Australia.

In completing her studies, Miriam wants to learn as much as she can about the history and challenges that face Aboriginal communities.

“I thought if I’m going to have an opinion and make a difference, then I need to know what I’m talking about,” says Miriam. And with that drive, Miriam is learning more and more each week so that she can feel more confident than ever to pass on her knowledge to her young students. They couldn’t be in safer hands.

Whether you want to learn more about your own history, like Miriam, or you you’re not sure what degree would be the best fit for you, get in touch with Open Universities Australia here, or speak to one of their expert student advisors on 1300 513 044 to find out more.

 

This article was originally published by our friends at Open Universities Australia.

 

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