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James O'Sullivan

Brisbane Campus (McAuley at Banyo) student James O’Sullivan is in his first year of a Bachelor of Teaching/Bachelor of Arts and can’t wait to be involved in educating students during their formative years.

The 18-year-old was among a number of students accepted into Australian Catholic University’s (ACU) Early Achievers’ Program (EAP) in its inaugural year.

“I’ve only been studying for a semester but I know teaching is the right career for me,” he said. “I chose education because I want to make a difference. I know I can’t change the world, but as a teacher I can change the world for my students. I’m going to make my mark where it counts.”

EAP recognises the achievements and community contributions made by prospective students, of both school leaver and non-school leaver backgrounds.

James was selected for his social justice activities when he was a student at Marist College Ashgrove, which included barbecues for the homeless and helping at a camp for children with disabilities.

James said he chose ACU because he knew it would equip him with the skills and ethics to teach in Catholic schools.

“ACU has given me a real sense of belonging,” he said. “At larger universities students often get lost in the crowd, but I like to be recognised, and at ACU the lecturers know me and I have no hesitation in asking for help if I need it.”

Since beginning university James has continued his community work by coaching an under 15s rugby team and volunteering at a local primary school library.

“I want to be the teacher that kids look back on and say, ‘he really made a difference in my life’,” said James. “I couldn’t imagine myself in any other profession.”