Overcoming study challenges with the support of Ngarara Willim

RMIT alum Ieisha Lyons shares her experience with Ngarara Willim, and a few wise words for current and future students.

Ieisha’s study journey has been challenging to say the least, from being diagnosed with an autoimmune condition to studying through the pandemic. Despite the difficulties she faced, Ieisha’s achievements are nothing short of remarkable.

We caught up with Ieisha to find out about her study experience, and how Ngarara Willim – RMIT’s dedicated support service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students – supported her every step of the way.

What did your RMIT journey look like?

My journey at RMIT began with studying an Associate Degree in Applied Science. I chose this degree as it is a general science pathway, which gave me an opportunity to explore and determine what specific science field I would like to choose long term. At the end of my associate degree, I developed an interest in biomedical science. I applied and got accepted into the Bachelor of Biomedical Science and graduated with distinction in 2022.

Ieisha Lyons

RMIT has many support services available to staff, students and alumni. If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person, Ngarara Willim can provide guidance and support throughout your journey.

From when you first started at RMIT, through to graduation, how have you met your initial goals and aspirations?

I had one main goal throughout both my degrees, and that was to achieve high grades by becoming more organised by making time to study. This goal was maintained throughout my degree and during the pandemic. I received academic excellence awards, including a Vice Chancellor academic award in my biomedical degree – which is something I’m very proud of.

What is a highlight of your time at RMIT?

Attending Ngarara Willim events, such as making damper with Mabu Mabu, and going to Gama-dji orientation each year. These events allowed me to have a yarn and listen to elders share their stories.

How has the Ngarara Willim team supported your journey?

The Ngarara Willim team helped me enrol into my associate degree. I spoke with Nicole from Ngarara Willim and she helped me find a suitable degree that I could enrol in, making the process less stressful, as I was nervous I wouldn't find something I was passionate about with my ATAR.

During my first year at RMIT, I was diagnosed with an autoimmune condition. The condition affected the use of my legs, making travelling to and from RMIT difficult. I had to take taxis, which created an ongoing financial strain. The Ngarara Willim team provided me with support and helped me look for scholarships to help alleviate the financial pressure.

Ngarara Willim also provided support academically by connecting me with a tutor. This support gave me a sense of relief and allowed me to feel at ease when studying and completing assignments, as I was able to ask questions about the content of my course and seek feedback on assignments.

A group of students on campus with a Ngarara Willim speaker

What do you look for in a future workplace or employer?

When searching for jobs, the organisation's values is what I prioritise the most. It’s important to me that the organisation’s values align with my own values; this helps me determine whether this organisation is a good fit for me. Please put yourself first and make decisions that align with you and your values, as it will allow you take initiative to prioritise yourself, rather than changing yourself to ‘fit in’ with the workplace or employer. Stay true to who you are.

What advice would you offer to current or future students?

You’re not alone, RMIT has many support services available to staff, students and alumni. If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person, Ngarara Willim can provide guidance and support throughout your journey.
Take initiative and focus on goals that are achievable to you.
Create a balance with studying and self-care; making time for yourself is very crucial, so please take the time and reward yourself for the small wins.

Story: Rekha Ryan

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RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.

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