More than 31,000 students, from 70 countries have passed through the UOW College doors since 1988.
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This week UOW College celebrated its 30th birthday by paying tribute to the staff and students who have helped to make it one of the most successful university colleges in Australia.
The two-day celebrations started with a gala dinner on April 26, before a student festival was held on the UOW College lawn the following day. A staff reunion was also held on Friday evening.
UOW College general manager, Julie Renwick said reaching its 30th birthday was a reflection of the values and quality of education offered since its inception.
“We are excited to be celebrating UOW College’s 30th birthday. It is a really proud moment for all the passionate and hard-working teachers and staff,” Ms Renwick said.
“For many of our students, UOW College has been the first stepping stone on the path to achieving their tertiary educations. It is an honour to have provided this crucial step and to have a part in helping our students reach their potential.”
UOW College, which was known as Wollongong English Language Centre when it opened in 1988, has gone from strength to strength in recent years.
It now offers pathways to university and employment, from vocational training, English language courses, and higher education diplomas, with a reach that encompasses UOW’s campuses, from South Western Sydney in the north, to Bega in the south.
Susan Zhang, who completed English for Tertiary Studies and is now a technical creative specialist for Google UK, is one of UOW College’s most notable graduates.
As is Dr James Goudkamp, who studied in the Foundation Studies Program and is now an Associate Professor in Law at Oxford University.
Students such as Adam Drenoyanis, who did not achieve the ATAR needed to apply to university, have also used UOW College as a stepping stone to a future in research.
Drenoyanis is now a PhD candidate.
Ms Renwick said these were just a few of the incredible success stories that have come out of UOW College.
“We are looking forward to continuing to grow in the years to come and continuing to work with our students to unlock their potential and achieve their personal and professional dreams.”