Learning without limits: Natalie's Study Journey

Natalie grew up in York and now lives in Merredin, firmly rooted in The Wheatbelt. Her education journey is shaped by curiosity, persistence and a deep love of learning. Natalie has completed multiple degrees, across different study modes as technology evolved. She jokes that she once set herself the goal of earning a degree from every Perth university.

Natalie’s first step into higher education was a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing at Curtin University, studied on campus. After graduating, she completed a Graduate Diploma of Education at Murdoch University and became an English and drama teacher in Merredin.

While teaching full time, Natalie continued to challenge herself academically by completing an Honours degree in Creative Writing remotely through Curtin. This was her first experience with distance education, at a time when online learning was still finding its feet.

The ultimate lifelong learner

Most recently, Natalie completed another huge milestone, a Master of Education specialising in literacy through Edith Cowan University (ECU). This degree was also studied online and compressed into a single intense year. Rather than feeling like “just another qualification”, Natalie describes this degree as one of the most intellectually rewarding experiences of her career, reshaping how she understands reading, writing and learning in the classroom.

Online learning, done better

Across her studies, Natalie has experienced both on campus learning and the evolution of online education. Early distance study felt quite isolating, with limited interaction and few opportunities to connect meaningfully with other students or tutors. Over time, however, universities have greatly improved how online courses are delivered, recognising the importance of flexible, high quality options for students living in regional areas.

By the time Natalie returned to study for her master’s degree, online learning had become more structured and interactive. Live sessions, clearer expectations and opportunities to engage in real time helped her feel part of a learning community rather than studying alone. These changes made it possible to stay regional while still accessing a rich university experience.

Study success at the Hub

A key part of her success was studying at her local Lumen Study Hub. Having a dedicated space reshaped Natalie’s learning. The Hub provided structure, routine and separation from home distractions. Once there, she could focus for long periods, often losing track of time because she was so engaged.

Understanding how her brain works

During her academic journey, Natalie was diagnosed with ADHD, transforming how she understood herself. Traits she had once labelled as laziness or apathy finally became clear, allowing her to stop blaming herself and instead focus on practical strategies that worked. Her ability to hyperfocus became a powerful asset. When she was interested in a topic, she could concentrate deeply for extended periods, especially when distractions were removed. Online learning also offered unexpected benefits, such as the ability to pause, rewind and rewatch recorded content.

Understanding how her brain works has helped Natalie refine her study habits. She now recognises that keeping her hands busy helps her concentrate, whether that means taking notes or doodling while listening. These small adjustments have made a significant difference, both in her own learning and in how she understands her students as a teacher.

Support along the way

Support has also played an important role. Natalie often talked through ideas with her sister, also a teacher, helping her process complex concepts aloud. These conversations, alongside the structure provided by Lumen, helped her stay motivated and grounded during demanding periods of study.

Why the Wheatbelt feels like home

Living regionally has always been central to Natalie’s choices. After time in the city, she returned to the Wheatbelt, drawn by wide open spaces, trees, quiet and a strong sense of community. In regional towns, she values knowing the people around her and having support close by, as well as being someone others can rely on in return. While she enjoyed aspects of studying on campus, she always knew regional life was where she felt most at home.

Advice for future students

She encourages students not to panic if they do not know what they want to do straight away. Her path reflects that learning can continue, adapt and grow throughout life.

For now, Natalie plans to take a well-earned break. Beyond that, she is already thinking ahead to a possible master’s by research, exploring how young adult fiction can support learners with low literacy. It is a natural next step for someone who sees learning not as a box to tick, but as an ongoing, meaningful part of life.

Natalie’s story shows that it is possible to keep learning, grow professionally and stay connected to your regional community, wherever you live and however your brain works.