Danyel Herbert testimonial - Southern Cross University

Words: Alba de Sadaba
Published: 2 June 2023

Danyel is 27 years old and currently in her third year of the Bachelor of Social Work. When she’s not studying or working, she likes enjoying the sun reading a book at the beach.

But sunshine was not always there for Danyel. However, a silver lining accompanied those stages of Danyel’s life.

“During my time at the hospital, I met a new social worker who was facilitating the in-patient classes. He shared genuine experiences with us and was a shining example of what we could be. He was the first person to suggest I consider studying social work. Since then, he has become one of my biggest supporters,” said Danyel.

That social worker changed Danyel’s life and she now would like to do the same for others.

“I think about everything I’ve been through in my life and where I probably would’ve ended up if I hadn’t started to get help and support when I did. I’m studying Social Work because if I can help just one person, if I can make some kind of difference, just that once, then it’d make it all worth it for me.”

“If I can help just one person, if I can make some kind of difference, just that once, then it’d make it all worth it for me.”

Danyel chose Southern Cross University for three main reasons: location, flexibility, and reputation.

“The campus is just a 20 minute drive from home, which allowed me to stay where I grew up rather than leave my place to go to uni. The study options are very flexible. Even though I’m enrolled as an on-campus student, I can still opt to study a unit online if I need to. Lastly, I chose Southern Cross because of its reputation. I spoke to multiple health professionals, social workers, nurses, psychologists and an overwhelming majority recommended Southern Cross. University rankings back up the recommendations I’d received.”

Currently in St George (Qld) for her first placement unit, Danyel picked a remote town to be able to experience a community completely different from home and broaden her horizons as a future social worker. “I’m meeting new people, socially and professionally, and learning and understanding more about the culture and history of the First Nations peoples that live here.

"Despite all the challenges, if you ask any social worker what the most rewarding part of their job is, their answer will likely be one of these three: being in a position to be able to help, knowing you are making a difference in someone’s life and making your job redundant (by supporting and empowering their clients to not need a social worker anymore. When that happens, that’s the most rewarding part of it all).”

Learn more about studying social work.