Hervey Bay OP2 student and national beauty pageant finalist Lauren Bosley is taking steps to achieve a childhood dream of working in health by enrolling in Nursing Science at USC.

The Fraser Coast Anglican College graduate will begin a Bachelor of Nursing Science at USC Fraser Coast next month as a pathway into medicine or a specialist career in nursing.

“I’ve been interested in the health field since before I can remember and my favourite toy as a young girl was a pretend doctor’s kit,” said the high-achiever, who received the subject award for Biology from Year 10 to 12, and an academic medallion for all-round excellence.

“While becoming a doctor is an option, I am going into nursing with an open mind,” Lauren, 17, said.

“I definitely aspire to continue with post-graduate studies, so the practical, hands-on nature of the program will be of great benefit as I pursue a career in the health field.”

It will be a busy year ahead for the aspiring model who is a national finalist in the Miss Diamond Australia Beauty Pageant, and will represent Queensland at the finals in April.

Ahead of the pageant, she is raising funds for her nominated charity, Breast Cancer Australia, and will stage a number of fundraising events on the Fraser Coast, including a charity movie screening and a live music evening.

Lauren was drawn to studying locally at USC Fraser Coast after visiting the campus in Old Maryborough Road, Hervey Bay, during its annual Open Day.

“I love that since it is a relatively small regional university, everyone seems to know each other and there is more one-on-one teaching available,” she said.

“It makes the somewhat daunting step of starting university so much more comfortable.

“I am most looking forward to studying in a setting where we will learn practical skills in state-of-the-art nursing facilities that resemble real hospitals.

“I am also excited about meeting new, like-minded people.”

Applications remain open to study Nursing Science and more than 15 other degrees at USC Fraser Coast in Semester 1, starting 26 February. Details on how to apply.

— Clare McKay