Originally from Burundi, Claudia arrived in Wollongong with her family five years ago. Next year she hopes to study nursing at the University of Wollongong, an opportunity she says would never have been open to her in Africa.

"I would definitely be doing something I didn't want to do," she said.

With assistance from The Smith Family's Learning for Life program, Claudia is enrolled at The Illawarra Grammar School, where she is taking the HSC electives maths, ancient history, legal studies, biology and English.

The student said she has found the Australian education system to be extremely supportive and a stark contrast to her experiences back home.

"Even if students are not the smartest kids, it still gives them a chance," she said. "The school also helps you with your career choices and tries to make it as easy as possible.

"In Africa education is way different to that. Your life is your choice and you don't get support from the government.

"Education is so important but you're not given any second chances. If you fail Year 12, you're done. Even if you pass, you're not guaranteed the career you want."