Tom's Student Life Story

About Tom

From IT to science and space

After starting out as a network engineer, Tom switched pathways to follow his lifelong passion for science and space through the Fee Free Uni Ready Program.

A confident start to the degree

Familiar with campus, Canvas and academic writing before day one, Tom moved straight into the Bachelor of Science with no learning curve and no surprises.

The support that stood out

Teaching staff, Student HQ and the wider Swinburne community backed Tom every step of the way — the piece he says made the whole experience seamless.

Something is out there

After graduating high school, Tom had gone into the IT industry and was studying to become a network engineer. He believed this was the smart choice long-term, both financially and for longevity, but Tom's real passion had always been in science and space.

Growing up watching old sci-fi movies such as Alien (1979) and more recently Interstellar (2014), Tom considered switching pathways. When told about the Fee Free Uni Ready Program by the Swinburne enrolment team, Tom thought it would be a great way to refresh skills he hadn't used since leaving school.

Astronomer in a telescope dome

'When I learnt about the Fee Free Uni Ready program I thought it was an excellent opportunity to get a head start to the Bachelor of Science. Getting familiar with the campus and the systems like Canvas took so much pressure off, and I was able to get straight into the content.'

Confidence to succeed

Having now transitioned into the Bachelor of Science, Tom says the confidence he brought to the degree was priceless – thanks to the Fee Free Uni Ready course. From support through the teaching staff, Student HQ and the systems, there were no surprises.

Tom says the skills he gained put him a step ahead, including understanding of academic writing and referencing styles. Gaining skills outside of his academic knowledge helped Tom to be organised and manage his learning journey, which made the whole process seamless.

To infinity and beyond

Once he completes his degree, Tom ultimately has his sights set on gaining his PhD in Astrophysics and becoming a researcher in the field. His message to others considering this pathway is that it's absolutely worth it.

"Swinburne's community of support helps you from enrolment every step of the way. Being part of campus life, meeting other classmates and building that network is invaluable."

Tom , Fee Free Uni Ready Program