Dave deferred and took a gap year (or two) before choosing a degree that let him follow his love of the great outdoors.

Alex was sure she wanted to be a primary school teacher – until she wasn't. After trying at least three USC degrees, she's finally found her passion.

Tash left her journalism degree after a year to launch her own national magazine. Now she's a USC Creative Writing graduate – as well as a published author and illustrator.

Keiran left school at the end of Year 11 to pursue an apprenticeship. A decade later, USC's Tertiary Preparation Pathway has helped him realise his dream of becoming a doctor.

Jenna had never considered university, so she didn't complete Year 11 or 12. Travelling around Australia helped her discover her passion for dietetics and community health.

Brendon tried an apprenticeship, enrolled in another degree, worked as a personal trainer and even applied to be a police officer before he found his passion for health and exercise science.

After a few failed attempts, Nathan wasn't sure he was cut out for university – until a chance invitation to a friend's graduation inspired him to try again.

Lachlan wanted to be a farmer until work experience in Year 12 inspired him to study healthcare. He was told he wouldn't make it at uni – but now he's on his way to qualifying as a paramedic.

Mitch used the Headstart program to study at USC in Year 11 – which is how he found out he didn't want to be an engineer.