He’s a musician, a children’s author and a traveller, but now Matthew Barker can add aspiring teacher to his repertoire after he successfully graduated with a Bachelor of Education (Primary) from CQUniversity this week.
Matthew graduated alongside hundreds of his fellow students at the 2021 CQUniversity Bundaberg Graduation Ceremony on 9 December – the second time he’s crossed the stage to receive a degree from the University.
Matthew graduated with a Bachelor of Music from CQUni’s Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music in 2009 and although he’s become a successful solo musician and writer, he now has his sights set firmly on a career in teaching.
“After graduating with a Bachelor of Music, the skills and experience I gained enabled me to establish my own music business, which has been the foundation of my employment for over a decade,” he said.
“The motivation to complete a Bachelor of Education (Primary) was to branch off into a new career direction that was not influenced by music, however I would be naive to think that the skills and experience I developed from not only music, but also as an author, would not influence my teaching or classroom. I believe that my established skill set will be a huge advantage in the classroom.”
He said the impact of COVID-19 on the entertainment scene was also a major influence on his decision to study teaching.
“The past two years have seen many personal challenges for me and now that I have graduated, I have had the time to look back and reflect on this journey and I feel very proud of my achievements and resilience.
“I have continued to perform as a self-employed musician, although like many, my employment was highly impacted by COVID-19. This change did however provide the opportunity to expand my skill set in the construction and building industries.
“Unfortunately, the caravanning and touring has been put on hold, but I am currently working on my third children’s book titled The Three Ghouls and I am looking forward to getting back into the recording studio to prepare for my upcoming album.”
Currently, Matthew is seeking employment in the local education sector.
“The choice to study at CQUni for me was always based on the knowledge that the university was local. I struggled with the thought of studying at a university where I would be just a number and lost in the crowd. At CQUni I feel that the staff, educators and community all work together to achieve greatness,” he said.
“I have not only now completed two Bachelor degrees at CQUni, but I have also been involved with performing at many professional and social University events and celebrations and I have made many friends and professional connections through the relationship I have had with CQUniversity.
“The choice to study education has come from my love of teaching and I do believe that teaching is one of the most rewarding professions. I would recommend studying CQUni's Education to anyone that has a passion for teaching.
“Right now, I am enjoying the emotions of completing this degree and have no immediate desire to jump back into studying; however future studies are not off the cards. One thing for certain is that I do look forward to continuing my relationship and involvement with CQUniversity in my hometown of Bundaberg.”
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