A Cowra local has been awarded a TAFE NSW Excellence Award for her commitment to her business studies – and is proving university isn’t the only path to success.

21-year-old Emily Reynolds studied a Certificate III in Business Administration and completed an administration traineeship at Cowra Early Childhood Services. She is currently studying a Diploma of Business while working as an Administration Assistant/Business Trainee at the centre.

“I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do as a career, but I decided to enrol in the Certificate III in Business Administration during Year 12 and never looked back,” Ms Reynolds said.

“I’d strongly encourage others to pursue a VET pathway and take advantage of a traineeship during high school. You get to earn while you learn and gain work experience and a qualification at the same time.

“I think a lot of people think university is the only path to success and there is stigma against VET – but I disagree with that. VET can also be a steppingstone to university.

“Studying at TAFE NSW has been such a positive experience – the support of my teachers has been invaluable and since I’m studying the Diploma online through TAFE Digital, I can learn at my own pace.

“When they announced I was awarded student of the year I was shocked – however I’m also really proud to represent TAFE NSW. Receiving an award like this gives you a huge confidence boost and my colleagues, friends and family are all really chuffed too.”

Cowra Early Childhood Services General Manager Libby Ewing-Jarvie said Emily is one of those team members who can be given a high-level brief and some creative license and who will deliver a fantastic result each time with minimal supervision.

"Coming from a business background myself, it’s fantastic to have a business trainee in our early childhood organisation. There is always plenty to do and I enjoy working in partnership with Emily to deliver on new ideas and ensure the administrative engine is always operating in a well-oiled way,” Ms Ewing-Jarvie said.

TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Business Administration Monica O’Neill said Emily is a dedicated student who demonstrates a strong commitment to her learning pathway.

“It is great to see Emily’s hard work and dedication acknowledged and recognised by this prestigious award. We look forward to working with, and supporting Emily successfully complete her traineeship in the Diploma of Business here at TAFE Digital,” Ms O’Neill said.