CSU Albury-Wodonga student Cristina Da Silva overcomes financial pressure to complete degree

Cristina Da Silva recently completed a Bachelor in Podiatric Medicine at Charles Sturt University's Albury-Wodonga campus, but almost didn't see it through due to financial pressure.

Having worked in healthcare for 15 years, Ms Da Silva wanted to move into a practitioner role and made the big decision to relocate from Western Australia to Albury in 2019 to chase her dream.

Financial hardship was often a barrier for Ms Da Silva growing up, but the support she received from the university's foundation accommodation scholarship relieved the tension and allowed her to focus on her studies.

"The financial stress I felt regarding how I was going to afford accommodation during my third year almost saw me dropping out altogether," she said.

"Juggling multiple financial commitments such as the cost of accommodation and personal expenses was becoming overwhelming."

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Ms Da Silva wanted to set an example for others from a low socio-economic background when it comes to higher education.

"This degree will equip me with skills needed to offer the very best in health care to my family, friends and the wider community," she said.

"It also shows others that it doesn't matter where you come from, we all have the power to transform our lives by pursuing education in a field in which we feel we can make a difference."

Charles Sturt Foundation CEO Sarah Ansell said Ms Da Silva's story is one of "true grit and determination".

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