Building confidence and community at Dookie
When Liza Hearmon wasn’t sure what to do after year 12, she enrolled in the University of Melbourne’s Diploma in General Studies (DiGS) and hasn’t looked back.
“I always liked agriculture but didn’t feel ready to commit to a three-year degree. It was my dad who found DiGS – it ended up being the perfect way to dip my toe into university life.”
The DiGS program is a one-year, full-time course based at the University’s Dookie campus in northern Victoria that can be used as a guaranteed pathway to University of Melbourne bachelor degrees in Agriculture, Arts, Commerce, Design, or Science.
“I loved the wide range of subjects that were available. I studied chemistry, biology, animal systems, maths, climate change and more,” Liza said.
After completing the DiGS program, Liza felt more confident about her future. She took a year off to gain some work experience, then returned to start a Bachelor of Agriculture. This time, based at the University’s Parkville campus.
“I still return to Dookie for a semester each year, as I love it, and we’re encouraged to study at different campuses,” Liza said.
“The Dookie community is close-knit – I've made lifelong friends – and the teachers are really caring.”
Now approaching her final year of the Bachelor of Agriculture, it’s the red meat industry that’s piqued Liza’s interest.
“I started my degree thinking I’d prefer agronomy and plants, but I ended up enjoying animal science. I love learning about physiology and genetics.”
Liza participated in the University’s intercollegiate meat judging team – an opportunity for agriculture students to engage with the Australian meat industry.
“We learnt about meat science, how to identify different cuts of meat and I made great industry connections.”
“I feel ready to step into an industry role when I finish my degree. I have the skills to handle it.”