• University Medallist Ms Ash Gallagher is grateful for the strong sense of belonging to the Charles Sturt community
• She praises small class sizes, personalised support to students, and flexibility of online study at Charles Sturt
• Her honours project will focus on human biomechanics to explore why some people are at higher risk of developing sports injuries than others

A Charles Sturt University (Charles Sturt) exercise and sports science graduate, who will be awarded the University Medal at her graduation ceremony, praises the support of the University community.

Ms Ash Gallagher (pictured) grew up in Newcastle, relocated to Bathurst this year, and will graduate with a Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science from the School of Exercise Science, Sport and Health at the Faculty of Science graduation ceremony in Bathurst at 2pm on Friday 13 December.

“I’m very proud to be a Charles Sturt University graduate and continuing student,” Ms Gallagher said.

“It’s such a huge honour to be receiving the University Medal that it’s difficult to put into words what it means to me.

“I am grateful to feel such a strong sense of belonging to the Charles Sturt University community, and I feel I wouldn’t be graduating without that support.”

As an undergraduate student Ms Gallagher participated in the STRIVE student leadership program and became a volunteer student mentor.

She is also employed casually as a student advisor, and has accepted an offer to study an honours year in exercise science at Charles Sturt in 2020.

“I chose Charles Sturt University primarily because of the small class sizes and personalised support available to students,” Ms Gallagher said.

“The flexibility of online study also appealed to me, because it allowed me to fit study around my work, sport, and family commitments.”

Ms Gallagher works with Dr Eevon Stott with the Active Living Longer (ALLong) program at Charles Sturt in Bathurst.

“Our program aims to support older adults to remain active into their later years,” she said.

“I supervise exercise sessions and conduct exercise testing with older adults, and I absolutely love working with our participants.

“Working with the ALLong program allows me to use the skills I developed throughout my degree and explore my interest in research.

“My honours project will focus on human biomechanics, and I hope to learn more about chronic ankle instability.”

Ms Gallagher said she looks forward to attending her graduation at 2pm on Friday 13 December and celebrating with her peers, friends, and family. (See 2019 Charles Sturt graduation details.)

“My advice to future sport science and exercise students is: do your best, ask for help when you need it, be kind, and have fun!” she said.

Charles Sturt Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Students) Ms Jenny Roberts said Ms Gallagher is a worthy recipient of the University Medal due to her conscientious scholarship and engagement.