New teaching graduate Kirsty Wright says switching from personal training to helping shape young minds is the best move she has ever made.

Ms Wright, who graduated from USC recently with a Bachelor of Primary Education, said the Year 5 children she teaches at Hervey Bay’s Bayside Christian College inspired her every day.

“The students of today are our future and it is my job, as an educator and a role model to ensure that these kids help change the world,” she said.

“Every child deserves a champion and the most important thing for me is ensuring they become the best they can possibly be, become good citizens, and be kind to one another.”

The 23-year-old became involved in the health and fitness industry after completing Year 12 at Bundaberg State High School in 2011 and moving to the Sunshine Coast.

After deciding to pursue a career as a teacher, she kept up her work as a personal trainer while completing USC’s Tertiary Pathway Program and then enrolling in the Bachelor of Primary Education.

“My university experience was an amazing one,” she said. “I loved how innovative USC was, from the design of its buildings right down to the technology used to deliver classes.

“Without USC I wouldn’t be who I am or where I am today – from the people I have met including the tutors and lecturers who have guided me to the experiences I had while on placement.”

USC’s annual Open Day will be held at its Fraser Coast campus on Saturday 23 June and at its Sunshine Coast campus on Sunday 22 July.

Applications are now open for mid-year entry to study at USC, with Semester 2 starting on 23 July.

- Clare McKay