• The Charles Sturt Advantage early offer program allows students to apply for and gain entry to courses before sitting her Year 12 exams
• Ms Isabella Smith, Bachelor of Psychology (Honours), said applying for an early offer was her best decision that changed her life and provided new opportunities
• Charles Sturt Advantage Round One applications close on Friday 31 July and Round Two applications close on Monday 31 August

Familial and personal challenges led a Charles Sturt University psychology student to appreciate that her academic journey was one of growth, resilience and transformation.

Ms Isabella Smith was raised in Griffith, NSW, lives in Bathurst now, and is in her final year of a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) in the Charles Sturt School of Psychology.

Ms Smith attributes her academic success to the Charles Sturt Advantage (CSA) program, which allowed her to apply for and gain entry to her course before sitting her Year 12 exams.

There were more than 4,000 CSA applications in 2025 and more than 23,000 CSA applications over the last five years. The most popular courses students were enrolled in were Physiotherapy, Paramedicine, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Psychology and Education.

Ms Smith said initially she did not know what to expect when she started university, but she now considers it the best decision she has made.

She credits the Charles Sturt Advantage program for changing her life in many ways.

“I can wholeheartedly say the opportunities and success I have achieved at the University are due to receiving a Charles Sturt Advantage ‘Early Offer’,” she said. “I cried with joy when I received the offer; it was life-changing.”

Ms Smith (pictured left) said some of the strategies she learned along the way included things like reaching out to lecturers and gaining academic skills, setting boundaries, and ensuring she aimed for a work-study life balance and protecting her energy.

She changed to part-time online study last year when she began working full-time as a Behaviour Support Practitioner in Bathurst and is currently working on her thesis research project.

Her university journey has been shaped by unique and deeply personal challenges, but it has also been a journey of growth, resilience and transformation.

“Following the separation of my parents after 16 difficult years, my family and I have navigated significant emotional, financial and practical change,” Ms Smith said.

“My mother became the sole provider and caregiver, and her strength in the face of adversity has been a major source of inspiration for me.

“While balancing university studies with family responsibilities and the emotional demands of ongoing court matters has at times been overwhelming, these experiences have taught me the importance of persistence, adaptability and seeking support when needed.”

She said coming from rural Griffith she witnessed first-hand the impact of mental health and suicide among community members and beyond.

“By studying psychology, I hope to be able to make a difference in communities that suffer from mental illness, such as my own,” she said. “After I graduate, I hope to continue working in rural and remote areas, helping and guiding people suffering from mental health issues.”

Ms Smith’s career goal is to become a forensic psychologist, specialising in working with young offenders. She intends to attain a Master of Clinical Psychology, which will provide the advanced training and supervised experience needed to achieve full registration and endorsement in this field.

“My aspiration is to support young people as they transition back into society through rehabilitation programs,” she said.

“By working closely with this population, I hope to reduce the risk of re-offending and contribute to breaking cycles of criminal behaviour, ultimately promoting safer communities and giving young people the tools they need to build more positive futures.”

To others contemplating tertiary study Isabella says your background or circumstances don’t define your potential, and you don’t have to have it all figured out on day one.

“Take every opportunity, stay curious, and trust that with persistence, you’ll find your path,” she said.

“I’ve learned that growth often comes from stepping outside your comfort zone, and university isn’t just about academics; it’s about discovering who you are, building resilience, and realising that setbacks don’t define your journey.

“I’ve found that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness, and that surrounding yourself with supportive people - whether classmates, lecturers, or mentors - can make all the difference. For anyone considering university, I say believe in your ability to adapt and learn, even when it feels overwhelming.”

To future students she says, “Be honest and be yourself. The University cares more about you as a person and what you bring, rather than what you got in an assessment or exam. Be raw and tell your story, it’s truly special”.

Apply for the Charles Sturt Advantage Round One by Friday 31 July. Round Two applications close Monday 31 August.

If you or someone you know needs help, contact:

• Lifeline – 13 11 14

• Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636

• Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800