Courtney McCreery, 2023 Brighter Futures Scholarship recipient
My name is Courtney and I’m studying a Bachelor of Advanced Science, Majoring in Geography and Archaeology. I became seriously ill just weeks into my second year of study. With each passing day, exhaustion weighed me down, making it a struggle to reach the end of the trimester.
After enduring months of comprehensive testing, I received a diagnosis that would alter the course of my life: idiopathic hypersomnia, a rare neurological sleep disorder often mistaken for narcolepsy. The simplest task of waking up became an immense physical challenge, requiring approximately two hours before I could even begin my day.
I faced a daunting journey ahead. My daily battles with brain fog, memory loss, and the inability to retain information posed significant hurdles to my academic pursuits. Studying became an uphill battle, testing my determination at every turn.
During a study break, I had the opportunity to visit relatives in the UK, and it was there that my enthusiasm for archaeology was reignited by a visit to the British Museum. Upon returning to my home on the Gold Coast, I discovered that Griffith University was offering a new major in archaeology, but there was a catch—it was only available at the Nathan campus.
For most, this would be a straightforward choice. However, my condition made what seemed simple for others incredibly challenging. I faced restrictions on my ability to drive, which meant no early or late classes. The prospect of navigating the unpredictable traffic between the Gold Coast and Brisbane only added to the complexity of the situation.
Committing to this new major was not a decision to be taken lightly. Despite taking a trimester off to save money, I found myself grappling with a rental crisis and the burden of skyrocketing inflation. My dreams appeared to be frozen in time, much like the artifacts in the museum. That was until I was fortunate enough to receive the Brighter Futures Scholarship.
This scholarship has been a lifeline for me, enabling me to subsidise my rent and reduce my working hours. Now, my week is a carefully balanced juggling act between the Gold Coast, where I still work part-time on weekends to support myself, and the weekdays spent living in a share house near the Nathan campus. I also channelled my energy into founding the Griffith University Archaeology Society, a pursuit that keeps my schedule busier than that of most university students.
For me, the Brighter Futures Scholarship represents a vital safety net, alleviating the financial strain and affording me the space to fully realise my potential. It's a reminder that every dollar contributed by generous donors has a profound impact on students like me, who are navigating the challenges of a chronic health condition while steadfastly pursuing their dreams.
As someone who understands the transformative power of education, I urge you to consider the immense difference your support can make. Your donation, regardless of its size, has the potential to change the trajectory of a student's life, just as it has for me.
Griffith University has committed to matching every dollar donated to the Brighter Futures Scholarship. Your contribution will not only empower students like me but also strengthen the bonds of our Griffith community.
If you can, please consider supporting the next generation of students by donating to the Brighter Futures Scholarship.
This will ensure that more stories like mine are filled with hope, determination, and the promise of a brighter future.