From young mum to psychology graduate: Sherkeira’s decade-long journey with CDU

Meet Sherkeira, from Alice Springs in Australia's Red Centre – a First Nations mum with a remarkable story that proves that sometimes in life, the best things happen when things don’t go to plan. 

Sherkeira's path to Charles Darwin University (CDU) wasn't straightforward.  After finishing Year 12 when she was 18, she had her heart set on studying psychology  – but life changed forever when she fell pregnant. 

For Sherkeira, becoming a mother was a game-changer – of course it came with its challenges, but it also made her more focused and determined to study than ever. 

“Even though becoming a young parent came with a lot of new responsibilities, I never let go of my dream of studying psychology, as it's something I've always been passionate about,” she says. 

Having a baby gave her a whole new sense of purpose. 

“It didn't take me long to decide to start studying because I knew I wanted to build a better future for myself, my child and my family,” she says. 

“Psychology felt like the right path to take to do that. It was a mix of following my passion and wanting to make something meaningful out of my journey.” 

Finding a calling in community healing 

Being a First Nations woman, Sherkeira soon developed unique insight into the psychological support that her community needed, and the cultural nuances that came along with it. 

“I've seen firsthand the psychological impacts on our people,” Sherkeira says. “Becoming a parent made me realise I wanted to be part of the change to help create a healthier, more supportive environment for both my community and my family. That's what truly inspired me to start this journey.” 

Her path to university kicked off with CDU's Tertiary Enabling Program (TEP), a six-month online pathway studies course designed to help bridge the gap between high school and university. Once she completed the course, she was eligible to enrol in a number of different undergraduate degrees, including her choice, the Bachelor of Psychological Science. 

Seven years later, after studying part-time, Sherkeira graduated. But she didn't stop there. Last year, she felt a strong pull to keep learning, so she went back to get a Graduate Diploma of Creative Therapies in order to sharpen her skills and bring more creativity and depth to her counselling work. And this year? She's tackling honours in Psychological Science, aiming to make an even bigger difference. 

Juggling textbooks and nappies 

As her family grew, so did Sherkeira. “Being a mum of four while studying has been one of the biggest yet most rewarding challenges of my life,” she says. “I had three more children during my academic journey, and balancing motherhood with deadlines, assessments and online classes was far from easy. Some days were pure chaos, and it definitely wasn't always perfect, but reminding myself why I was doing it, especially for my children's future, kept me going.” 

Sticking with such a demanding journey took huge inner strength and a solid support system. 

“There were definitely times when I felt completely overwhelmed and questioned whether I could keep going,” Sherkeira says. “In those moments, I leaned heavily on the support of my partner and family. Their constant encouragement reminded me of my goals and the bigger picture. They believed in me even when I didn't believe in myself, and that made all the difference.” 

Studying online brought unique challenges. too. “Adapting to online study was a big shift,” she says.

“Without a classroom environment, I had to become more self-disciplined and motivated. I learned to set small, realistic goals, create a study routine that would fit around my kids and take regular breaks to avoid burning out.”  

The village that made it possible 

Sherkeira credits her success to the support network she had throughout her studies. She tapped into First Nations scholarships, which helped cover study materials and eased financial pressure.

She also calls out CDU's Alice Springs-based First Nations Student Support Team – especially Sharon and Lorraine – for their “absolutely incredible” guidance. 

“Whenever I faced challenges or doubted myself, they were there with encouragement that kept me going,” Sherkeira says. “They always made time to have a yarn, listen and offer advice or support, which helped lighten my load and made me feel truly supported.” 

Her family remained her absolute bedrock. “You know the saying: ‘It takes a village to raise a family’. Throughout my studies, that quote has never felt more true. I couldn't have done it without the people around me.” 

Bigger dreams ahead 

Since graduating, Sherkeira has been working as a child and family counsellor, a career she finds "incredibly rewarding". But her ultimate goals lie ahead. Next year, she plans to start a Master of Psychology (Clinical), and beyond that, she dreams of specialising in neuropsychology – the link between brain function and behaviour. 

“My journey at CDU has truly changed me,” Sherkeira says.  “It's helped me find my voice, build my confidence and realise my own strength. 

"What this experience has really shown me is that I'm capable of so much more than I thought."

“As a proud First Nations woman and a mum, knowing I can achieve what I set my mind to means everything. That belief is something I'll carry with me, not just into my career, but through life, and I hope to pass that strength on to my children and my community.” 

Ready to start your own transformative journey? Discover how CDU's flexible study options and support services can help you achieve your goals, no matter what life throws your way. 

Interested in studying a Bachelor of Psychological Science at CDU? Apply now or find other careers in health.