Jackson Schultz is one of 700 undergraduate students starting their tertiary education at Charles Sturt University this week. Photo: Shri Gayathirie Rajen.
Jackson Schultz has always loved animals.
Growing up on a farm, the first-year Charles Sturt University student is pursuing a Bachelor of Animal Science and plans to transition into a Bachelor of Veterinary Science.
“CSU was well and truly my first pick,” Jackson said. “I will study animal science hard to get into vet next year.
“I’m from a farm in Goulburn, and we grew up with cattle and dogs. I’ve always been passionate about working with animals and people.
“I am very passionate about large animals. I feel vet is the perfect industry where I can help people and animals every day.”
The 18-year-old said that after working with a vet who had been in the industry for more than two decades, he learned the vastness of the field.
“I don’t think I will master it. The vet I worked with hasn’t mastered everything. It is a huge field to get into,” Jackson said.
“I’m hoping to specialise in rural practice in Goulburn or Wagga or go out to the middle of nowhere and work on dogs, cats, horses, cattle, sheep and goats.”
As the eldest child, Jackson shared that his mum was upset to see him move out.
“My mum was very emotional yesterday, and I was feeling the same, but it hasn’t really set in yet,” he said.
Over the weekend Jackson came to the campus with his family to settle into his new dorm.
He chose to live on campus after hearing positive feedback about the atmosphere.
“I am a very social person. I love meeting new people, and it’s right up my alley,” Jackson said.
“I’ve made heaps of friends since arriving, and we’ve got pretty close since last night (Monday 24 February).”
Jackson has already started working at a saleyard.
“I need some money,” he said.
“I’ll study, work, and make new friends like no tomorrow, but making money and staying here is quite high on my Wagga list.”
While he has previously travelled to Wagga for swimming and tours, this is the first time he will be living in the region.
CSU is currently hosting its orientation week to welcome almost 700 undergraduates.
From 24 to 28 February, the week comprises on-campus and online events and activities. The program is designed to ensure new students have the guidance and support they need and opportunities to make connections with staff and fellow students.
A welcome event was held at the Wagga Wagga campus on Tuesday to kick off a week of campus tours and information sessions to integrate students into university life.
Throughout the week, Wagga Wagga students will have the opportunity to participate in a paint party, trivia, ‘speed friending’, lawn games, sports, burger-making, and more.
Charles Sturt Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Renee Leon said welcoming the new students as they embarked on their higher education journey was a highlight on the university calendar.
“We are here to help every student succeed on their career journey,” Professor Leon said.
“We are committed to our mission of educating the next generation of professionals vital to Australia.”
Professor Leon said practical experience set CSU apart from other educational institutions.
“The practical, hands-on learning at Charles Sturt is one of the many things that give our students the edge when it’s time to step into the workforce,” Professor Leon said.
“Our paid placements and cadetships also allow students to focus on their studies, reducing cost-of-living pressures.”
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