Meet Hayley Lambert: Academic Excellence Scholar 2020

The Academic Excellence Scholarships Recognising Outstanding Performance in Undergraduate Studies were established to reward hard work, persistence and dedication to academic excellence. In this ‘Meet the Scholar’ series we will introduce you to those undergraduate students who are the 2020 recipients of this generous scholarship. Are you ready to be inspired?

What program are you studying?
I am studying a Bachelor of Education (Primary).
What year of study are you in?
3rd year.
What did you feel when you heard you were the recipient of the Academic Excellence Scholarships Recognising Outstanding Performance in Undergraduate Studies?

I was pleasantly surprised when I received the email stating I was a recipient of an Academic Excellence Scholarship. I had no idea that I could be awarded one without applying. It is wonderful to be recognised for outstanding performance.

What do you think are the personal qualities that have contributed to your academic achievements?
Having a high level of commitment to achieve and a desire to make the most of the opportunity that each and every course provides is important to me. Being organised and having the diligence to be present in tutorials and make a contribution to collaborative learning have helped me to have the mindset to persevere when study periods are difficult.
How do you motivate yourself towards your studies?
I always strive to achieve the best result in every subject. I do this through committing the time in order to immerse myself in the course material. This achieves deep learning rather than surface learning and prepares me for the assessments. We all have times when low self-efficacy strikes. Being prepared for the course ensures deeper levels of understanding. Other times I look to my family and draw strength from them.
Who are your role models?
Individuals who have persevered and have believed in their own abilities are inspirational to me. Someone who has the resilience and the fortitude to pursue their goals and adapt would be a role model to me. Someone who inspires me is my husband.
What are your goals for the future?
To become a primary school teacher with a classroom guided by pedagogies for social justice.
What are three things you enjoy most about studying at the University of Newcastle?
The location of the University of Newcastle is ideal for me and I love the natural surroundings. It is refreshing after being indoors through study periods to walk through the trees and hear the wildlife. I feel very fortunate to be taught by the Faculty of Education at Newcastle where educative frameworks and pedagogies for best practice are researched.
What tips do you have for other students when it comes to excelling in their studies?

Plan for success. Dedicate the time it takes for you to understand the work and don’t be afraid to ask for help from your peers or the support network at the university. Organise your schedule and start researching for assignments as early as practicable.

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