When Maryborough student Arty Clifford started a USC Law degree this year, he already had the inside track on university life.

The 17-year-old Aldridge State High School graduate had completed one subject of his university degree during high school, studying under USC’s award-winning Headstart program.

Headstart enables Year 11 and 12 students to study university-level subjects, earning credit towards their Queensland Certificate of Education and a USC degree at the same time.

Arty said he appreciated the opportunity to get an early start to university life by studying a Headstart course at USC’s Fraser Coast campus.

“The great thing about completing a Headstart course was that it gave me guaranteed entry to my degree at USC,” he said.

“I didn’t have to wait until the end of the year to find out if I’d been accepted into my program, and it saved me a lot of stress and worrying.

“I found Headstart a great way to challenge myself at high school, and find out how university study differs. At uni, the onus is on you to get the work done – I liked that independence.”

USC will outline full details of the Headstart program at a Meet USC event at its Fraser Coast and Sunshine Coast campuses on Tuesday, 12 September from 4pm.

The event is a chance for parents and students in Year 10, 11 or 12 to learn more about study options at USC and how to apply.

Arty, who is now in his second semester of studying Law, said he was enjoying all aspects of USC life.

“Law is such an intriguing field,” he said. “I’m enjoying exploring it, as well as participating in all the extra-curricular activities, like mooting and negotiation competitions.

“I felt like I already had a little bit of an idea about what to expect at uni because of Headstart. I’d recommend it to any high school student who’s keen and motivated.”

To register to attend the Meet USC event or find out more about the program, visit the Headstart page.

— Gen Kennedy