I Think My Child Is Having Panic Attacks. What Should I do?

In the movie Inside Out 2, 13-year-old Riley, who has recently started puberty, has a panic attack during a hockey game timeout. Anxiety (the emotion responsible for the panic attack) becomes completely frenzied and there is a sense Riley is losing control. After a while, Anxiety calms down and Riley’s panic attack subsides.

The movie does a great job of conveying the experience of having a panic attack. But panic attacks (and anxiety) don’t just arise in teenagers – younger children can also have them. Being aware of what to look out for and how to respond to anxiety or panic is important to help you and your child better manage these scary symptoms.

What does a panic attack look like in a child?

A panic attack is a sudden, intense feeling of fear or discomfort associated with four or more of the following:

• Feeling very hot or cold.
• Racing heart.
• Shortness of breath.
• Tightness in the throat or chest.
• Tingling sensations.
• Light-headedness.

Panic attacks in children can last from a few minutes to 30 minutes. Some children describe a panic attack as feeling like they are trapped or in danger, that something terrible is happening to them, they are losing control of their body, having a heart attack, or even dying. Often, a child is unaware their symptoms are related to anxiety. This experience can be very scary for children and others around them who don’t know what is happening.

How common are panic attacks and at what age might they start?

There is a common myth that panic attacks only occur in teenagers or adults, but research shows this is not the case. Although less frequent than in teenagers, panic attacks also occur in children. Studies indicate around 3–5% of children experience panic attacks. They can begin at any age, although they typically first occur in children and adolescents between the ages of five and 18.

What causes a panic attack?

For some children, panic attacks can happen unexpectedly and without cause. These are known as “uncued” panic attacks. For other children, panic attacks may be cued. This means they occur in specific situations that are anxiety-provoking, such as separating from a caregiver or doing a speech in class. Cued panic attacks tend to be more common in children than uncued panic attacks.

Sometimes a panic attack can occur when a child’s physical symptoms (from feeling anxious) become the centre of their attention. For example, if a child notices a physical symptom (such as shortness of breath) and becomes worried about it, this can make them feel anxious, leading to more anxiety or a panic attack.

If children realise their physical symptoms are signs of anxiety and not a serious physical health problem, they might learn to not give too much attention to these symptoms and stop a vicious cycle occurring.

What can parents do in the moment to support their child?

• If your child is breathing very quickly or hyperventilating, try to remain calm and encourage them to breathe normally.
• Tell your child these feelings are temporary and not dangerous. Focusing your child’s attention on their rapid breathing or other symptoms can sometimes make things worse.
• Try to help your child focus on something else, using the 3-3-3 rule: “Tell me three things you can hear, three things you can see, and three things you can touch”. Ask them to say these out loud.
• If your child complains about bodily symptoms – but is not experiencing a full-blown panic attack – try to understand and acknowledge the symptoms they are experiencing.
• Once you are satisfied their symptoms are not a physical health problem, tell them it will be okay and then move on to something else. This will help to shift their attention to something else and stop the anxiety and symptoms from escalating.

What about afterwards?

When your child’s panic attack is over, you can teach them about panic attacks. Explain that panic attacks are common and aren’t dangerous, even though they can feel scary and uncomfortable, and are a temporary sensation.

An effective strategy for panic attacks is a technique from cognitive behavioural therapy called “exposure”, which encourages children to face their fears. For panic attacks, this could be facing certain situations or objects that trigger the panic attack, or exposure to the actual physical symptoms.

Exposure is typically done with the support of a therapist, but increasingly there are programs available which support parents to deliver exposure-based treatment with their child.

Does having a panic attack mean my child has an anxiety disorder?

If your child has a panic attack, it does not mean they have an anxiety disorder. Panic attacks can occur in all children with or without anxiety disorders or mental health conditions. However, panic attacks often occur in children with anxiety disorders or other mental disorders, such as depression or post-traumatic stress disorder.

Panic disorder is a particular type of anxiety disorder in which panic attacks are a core feature. Panic disorder is not common in children, and occurs in less than 1% pre-adolescent children. It typically emerges in adolescence or adulthood.

If your child is having panic attacks often and unexpectedly, has persistent worry (for at least a month) about additional panic attacks, or avoids situations that may trigger panic attacks, it may indicate they have panic disorder. If your child is having panic attacks in response to specific situations or fears, such as separating from a caregiver, and their fears are interfering in everyday life, it may indicate an anxiety disorder.

Where can I look for help?

If you are concerned your child has an anxiety disorder, speak to your GP or a psychologist about it. You don’t need a GP referral to see a psychologist, but a GP can create a mental health treatment plan which allows you to claim a Medicare rebate for up to ten sessions. There are also a range of online resources.

Author: Gemma Sicouri, Senior Postdoctoral Research Fellow and Clinical Psychologist, Black Dog Institute, UNSW Sydney; Annabel Songco, Senior Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Child Mental Health, Black Dog Institute, UNSW Sydney; Chloe Lim, Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Child Mental Health, Black Dog Institute, UNSW Sydney, and Jennie Hudson, Professor of Clinical Psychology, UNSW Sydney.

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• Learn from experienced teachers with native-like proficiency
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Value: $5,000 AUD

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Study

University

Unusual courses for Halloween fans

Are you fascinated by mysteries, legends, or solving puzzles? While ghosts and skeletons might be fun around Halloween, there are actually some interesting career paths that let you explore the unexplained or investigate real-world mysteries. Let’s look at some unusual courses for fans of Halloween that could lead to fascinating careers.

Paranormal and supernatural studies

Ever wondered about the mysteries that lie beyond our comprehension? Delve into the realm of the unexplained through the study of paranormal or supernatural phenomena, where you’ll investigate hauntings, psychic experiences, and other eerie occurrences.

It might all sound a little out there, but you’ll actually be building some valuable skills during your studies, including data collection and analysis, critical thinking, and ethical considerations. This could lead you to careers in writing, media production, tourism, psychology, or cultural studies.

• Take a class in The History of the Supernatural at the University of Queensland.
• Learn all about “weird stuff” with the University of Arizona’s course How to Think About the Supernatural, the Paranormal, and the Mysterious.
• The University of Edinburgh has an entire unit dedicated to Parapsychology, the scientific study of the possibility of psychic ability and phenomena.
• Explore Ghost Stories, Haunted House and Other Occult Phenomena at John Hopkins University.
• For the super-dedicated, you could join the Division of Perceptual Studies at the University of Virginia.

Witchcraft and occult studies

For those drawn to the mystical world of spells and ancient rituals, courses in witchcraft and the occult can offer a window into the practices and beliefs of both ancient and modern cultures. Dive deep into the historical, cultural, and spiritual significance of these practices as well as their relevance in contemporary society.

You’ll gain skills in research, critical thinking, analysis, and communication. These courses provide a great background for those interested in careers in anthropology, history, culture, or religion.

• Take a look at what’s on offer from the Centre for Magic and Esotericism at the University of Exeter.
• Learn about Magic and Witchcraft in ancient Greece and Rome at the University of Newcastle.
• Study the Anthropology of Witch Hunts at the Open University.
• Investigate the Anthropology of Ritual, Religion, and Witchcraft in this unit at Massey University.
• Explore Witchcraft, Paganism and Western Esotericism at the University of Sydney.
• Or dive into Occultism and Modernity at the University of Gothenburg.

Gothic literature and horror studies

Want to become the next Stephen King, Alfred Hitchcock, or Mary Shelley? Delve into the world of gothic literature and horror studies, where you’ll analyse classic and modern horror tales, understanding the psychological, societal, and cultural implications of fear.

You won’t just build bone-chilling storytelling skills – you’ll also develop excellent analytical and critical thinking, cultural and historical awareness, and the ability to understand diverse perspectives. These courses are ideal for aspiring writers, entertainers, filmmakers, artists, and even game developers.

• Learn about the history of Gothic fiction, poetry and drama at Manchester Metropolitan University.
• Explore the History, Literature, and Culture of the Victorian Gothic Period at the University of Portsmouth.
• Study historical and modern Gothic Fiction at the University of New England.
• The University of Newark offers a minor in Gothic Literature as part of their English courses.
• Or research Gothic literature and history at the University of Stirling’s International Centre for Gothic Studies.

Mythological and monster studies

If you’re fascinated by all kinds of mythical tales and scary monsters, there are actually courses out there for you! Study legendary narratives and creepy beasts; investigate their origins and their scientific, cultural, and societal impacts; and better understand human nature, society, and history.

These courses will help you develop your critical analysis, interpretation, and storytelling skills, as well as deepen your understanding of symbolism, cultural awareness, and media literacy. They’re ideal for anyone interested in a career in academia, anthropology, film and media, museum curation, or education.

• Deep-dive into Sea Monsters with Harvard University.
• Learn all about Monsters in Popular Culture at the University of Melbourne.
• The University of Pennsylvania’s Gods, Ghosts, Monsters class explores myths from a wide variety of cultures and religions.
• Explore Greek mythology with the Myth and the Ancient World module at the University of Southampton.
• Study the Zombie in History and Popular Culture with the University of Colorado Boulder.
• Take a look at what’s on offer from the Centre for Myth Studies at the University of Essex.

Dark tourism studies

Combine your love for travel and the eerie by exploring dark tourism. Explore sites associated with death, tragedy, or the supernatural, and understand the cultural and psychological aspects of visiting these places and their impact on society.

This field will help you build deep cultural sensitivity, empathy, and critical thinking skills, as well as exploring ethical questions about the commercialisation of tragedy and the boundaries between education and exploitation. Potential career fields include tourism, curation, site management, cultural research, or even ethical consulting.

• Study with the Institute for Dark Tourism Research at the University of Central Lancashire.
• Discover why people are attracted to tragedy with the module The ‘Dark Side’: Dark Tourism and Difficult Heritages at the University of Edinburgh.
• Learn about Sites of Death, Suffering, and the Macabre in Malta through L-Università ta’ Malta.
• Complete an Honours Program in Thanatourism with Chapman University.

Forensic science and criminology studies

If your love for the macabre is less on the supernatural spectrum and more focused on solving real-life mysteries, forensic science and criminology might be your calling. Explore the science and psychology behind crimes, learning how to analyse evidence and understand the criminal mind.

Through your studies, you’ll build skills in critical thinking, analytical reasoning, attention to detail, and a strong understanding of legal and investigative processes. These courses can lead you to a career in law enforcement, forensic analysis, psychology, legal consulting, or counselling.

• Lots of universities offer Forensic Science and Criminology degrees, majors, and programs.
• Take your studies to the next level with a Master of Forensic Medicine from Monash University.
• Delve deep into the sociology of crime and justice with the University of Cambridge’s Institute of Criminology.
• Study a Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology at the University of Denver.

Happy Halloween and happy learning

You might be surprised what kind of career your unique interests can lead to. Whether your passion lies in ghostly experiences, ancient mysticism, or solving mysteries, there’s a course out there to suit any Halloween fan.

Interested in other study pathways? We have heaps of other blogs you might like to read.

Note: The availability of these courses and degrees might vary based on study level and region. We always recommend you research thoroughly and consult academic advisors for detailed information before signing up for courses.

Study Tips

Balancing academic and extracurricular activities: A guide for high school students

Are you feeling overwhelmed trying to juggle your studies with sports practice, music lessons, or other activities? You’re not alone. While extracurricular activities are great for making friends and developing new skills, it can be tricky to find the right balance between these activities and your academic ones. Let’s explore some practical ways you can manage your time and energy effectively.

Why are extracurricular activities important?

While keeping up with your studies is important of course, activities outside the classroom can add so much value to your high school experience too. Being involved in extracurricular activities can:

• Help you discover new interests and talents
• Build valuable skills for your future
• Look great on job and university applications
• Provide a fun break from studying
• Help you make new friends

But it’s important to find the right balance so that neither your grades nor your activities suffer.

Tips for balancing academic and extracurricular activities

The key to balancing academic and extracurricular activities is smart time management, so here are our top tips for making it work.

Start with your studies

This might not come as a surprise, but your school work should be your foundation. Make sure things like assignments and exams have top priority – then, you can plan your other activities around them.

Choose activities you truly enjoy

Try and avoid joining clubs or doing certain activities just because they’ll look good on your resume. Pick things that actually interest you – you’ll be more motivated to make time for them, get more out of the experience, and just enjoy yourself more too.

Be realistic about your commitments

Like it or not, there are only so many hours in each day. So if you want to add more activities to your calendar, consider:

• How many hours per week each activity requires
• Travel time to and from activities
• Whether activities clash with other commitments
• Busy periods at school (like exam time)
• Time off to rest and recharge

Learn to prioritise

You don’t have to do everything! It’s better to fully commit to a few activities than to spread yourself too thin across many. And if you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s totally okay to step back from some commitments – your health and wellbeing always comes first.

Creating a schedule that works

Having a clear schedule is one of the best ways to make sure you can fit everything in without getting stressed. Here’s a simple way to put together a calendar to keep track of your commitments:

Use a planner

Writing everything down is a great way to help you stay on track each day. There are some great planning apps out there to help you put your schedule together, but good old-fashioned pen and paper does the trick just as well.

List all your commitments

Whatever method you use, your first step is to work out what all your commitments are and how long they take. Include things like:

• Class times
• Assignment and exam dates
• Activity schedules
• Study periods
• Free time

Block out your time

Once you know what you’re doing, you just need to work out when to do it! In your planner, allocate specific times each day or week for each activity and commitment.

If you find some of them overlap or you don’t have enough time in your week for all of them, go back and work out what should take top priority, and schedule it first.

And don’t forget to leave some gaps in your schedule for unexpected events or tasks that take longer than planned – plus that all-important time for socialising, hobbies, and rest.

Look after yourself

While balancing everything is important, your health and wellbeing should always come first. Remember that you can’t pour from an empty cup. Make sure you:

• Get enough sleep
• Eat well
• Exercise regularly
• Take breaks when needed
• Spend time with friends and family

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to talk to your teachers, family, or school counsellor. They can help you work out a better balance.

Want more tips?

Check out our website for heaps more advice on managing school life and staying healthy while achieving your goals.

Work

Job Spotlight

How to become an Esports Professional

Esports professionals compete in organised video game competitions at a professional level. They train extensively, participate in tournaments, and often represent teams or organisations in various gaming leagues. While gaming for a living might sound like a dream, it requires incredible dedication, skill, and business knowledge to succeed.

If you have exceptional gaming abilities, thrive under pressure, and are willing to put in the countless hours required to compete at the highest level, a career as an esports professional could be worth exploring.

What skills do I need as an esports professional?

• Exceptional skills in your chosen game/s
• Quick reflexes and decision-making abilities
• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication skills
• Mental resilience and emotional control
• Time management and self-discipline
• Ability to perform under pressure
• Great teamwork skills
• Personal branding knowledge

What does the job involve?

• Training extensively in your chosen game/s
• Competing in tournaments and leagues
• Analysing gameplay footage and strategies
• Participating in team practice sessions
• Maintaining physical and mental fitness
• Engaging with fans through social media and streams
• Attending gaming events and conventions
• Working with coaches and team managers
• Meeting sponsor obligations and creating content

What industries do esports professionals typically work in?

• Arts & Recreation Services
• Education & Training
• Professional, Scientific & Technical Services

What Career Cluster do esports professionals belong to?

Esports professionals work with technology and need strong problem-solving skills, so they are usually Innovators. It’s also an attractive career for Makers, who enjoy using specialised equipment and love hands-on work.

What kind of lifestyle can I expect?

The lifestyle of an esports professional can be demanding and intense. Training schedules are rigorous, often requiring 8-12 hours of practice daily, including on weekends and holidays. Travel is common for tournaments and events.

Income can vary significantly – while top players can earn substantial amounts through tournament winnings, sponsorships, and streaming, many players earn modest incomes, especially when starting out.

The pressure to perform consistently can be intense, and work-life balance can be challenging during competitive seasons. However, many professionals find the opportunity to compete at the highest level extremely rewarding.

How to become an esports professional

Breaking into professional esports requires a combination of skill, dedication, and strategic career building. Here are some of the things you can do to get there:

• Master your chosen game and achieve high rankings in competitive play
• Build a following through streaming or content creation
• Join amateur teams and participate in local tournaments
• Network within the gaming community
• Consider joining university or collegiate esports programs
• Gain experience in smaller competitions before moving to larger tournaments
• Develop a personal brand and social media presence
• Consider having a backup career plan or education

Many successful esports professionals also maintain robust physical and mental health routines to sustain peak performance.

What can I do right now to work towards this career?

If you’re in high school and interested in pursuing esports professionally, here are some steps you can take:

• Focus on excelling in one specific game or genre rather than playing many casually
• Balance gaming with study – most university esports programs have minimum academic requirements
• Join your school’s esports club or start one with the help of friends and teachers
• Enter amateur or local esports competitions to start building a name for yourself
• Study professional players’ strategies and techniques and learn about the business side of esports

Where can I find more information?

You can learn more about professional esports through these organisations:

• Esports Integrity Commission
• Global Esports Federation
• Australian Esports League
• New Zealand Esports Federation
• British Esports Association
• National Association of Collegiate Esports (US)
• Esport Canada

Similar careers to esports professional

• Content Creator
• Esports Coach
• Game Tester
• Event Planner
• Sports Commentator
• Community Manager
• Game Developer
• Influencer

Find out more about alternative careers on our Job Spotlights page.

Skills for Work

How to turn your teenage activities into resume gold

When you’re in high school, it might seem like the things you do every day – whether it’s playing sport, hanging out with friends, or gaming – don’t have much to do with finding a job. But here’s the good news: many of these activities are actually giving you valuable skills that employers love. By learning how to translate these activities into something that looks good on your resume, you’ll stand out from the crowd.

Why does this matter? Because a resume is more than just a list of jobs you’ve had – it’s a tool that shows employers what you can do.

They’re not just interested in what you’ve done, but in the skills you’ve gained and how you can apply them. With the right words and examples, you can show that what you’ve been doing as a teenager makes you an ideal candidate for a job, whether it’s a casual part-time role or your first step into a future career. So, let’s break it down and see how your current activities can help you build a strong, relatable resume that works.

Playing team sport

Being part of a team sport is more than just about fitness and fun. When you’re out on the court or field, you’re also learning how to work with others, manage time, and handle pressure – all skills that are highly valued in the workplace. Employers look for people who can collaborate effectively, communicate well, and keep their cool in challenging situations.

Team sports also teach you the importance of dedication and perseverance. Training sessions, early morning games, and pushing through losses show that you’re committed and resilient – qualities employers love.

How to put this on your resume

Team Member, Local Soccer Club
2021 – Present

• Collaborated with a team of 10 to develop strategies and achieve success on the field
• Demonstrated strong communication skills by maintaining clear, positive relationships with team members
• Developed time management by balancing training, matches, and school commitments

Modding games and setting up servers

If you’ve spent time modding games or setting up private servers for you and your friends, you’ve already gained some pretty technical skills. These tasks require problem-solving, coding knowledge, and the ability to troubleshoot when things go wrong. Employers in the tech industry, and even beyond, are always looking for people with digital skills – whether it’s basic coding, server management, or just a deep understanding of how technology works.

This experience also shows initiative and self-learning, as most of these skills aren’t taught formally in schools. Employers like candidates who are curious and willing to figure things out on their own.

How to put this on your resume

Game Modder & Server Manager
2022 – Present

• Developed and managed custom game mods, improving user experience for online gaming communities
• Set up and maintained private game servers, handling user support and technical troubleshooting
• Gained experience with coding, server configuration, and managing online communities

Managing a social media account

Running your own Instagram page, YouTube channel, or TikTok isn’t just about gaining followers – it’s about content creation, marketing, and building a brand. When you manage a social media account, you’re learning how to engage an audience, create appealing content, and analyse what works and what doesn’t. These are all key skills in marketing and communication roles.

In addition, you’re developing organisational skills – posting consistently, creating a content schedule, and analysing performance metrics all require discipline and attention to detail. These are all qualities that employers across industries look for.

How to put this on your resume

Social Media Manager, Personal Instagram Account
2021 – Present

• Created and posted engaging content, growing follower base to 1,000+
• Managed content calendar, ensuring regular posts and consistent audience engagement
• Analysed social media trends and user interactions to improve content strategy

Being part of a youth group or club

If you’re involved in a youth group or club, whether it’s for sports, hobbies, or volunteering, you’re already gaining leadership, teamwork, and event planning skills. Being active in these groups often requires taking on responsibilities like organising events, managing a group of people, and solving conflicts – all of which are skills that employers seek in candidates for many roles.

Being in a youth group also demonstrates your ability to work within a structured environment while contributing positively to the community. This can make a strong impression on employers, showing them that you’re a reliable team player with strong interpersonal skills.

How to put this on your resume

Youth Group Member, Local Youth Club
2023 – Present

• Participated in and helped organise community events, working with teams of 15+ members
• Developed leadership skills by taking responsibility for planning and executing fundraising initiatives
• Improved communication and teamwork by coordinating activities and resolving group challenges

Here’s what to do next

Now that you understand how your teenage activities can be translated into resume-worthy experience, it’s time to take action.

Identify your skills

First, think about all the things you currently do in your spare time – whether it’s hobbies, social groups, or responsibilities you take on at school or home. Write them down, and begin to identify the skills you’re developing through these activities. Look for patterns – are you gaining leadership skills, learning how to problem-solve, or becoming better at managing your time?

Show how you gained those skills

Once you’ve identified these skills, start thinking about how you can articulate them in a way that will resonate with potential employers. As we’ve seen, the key is translating your experiences into language that aligns with what an employer is looking for. Employers value skills like communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management, so frame your activities in a way that showcases these attributes.

Start building your resume

Next, build a draft of your resume. Don’t worry if you haven’t had formal work experience yet—use these examples to create a ‘Skills and Experience’ section that highlights what you’ve learned through your everyday activities. Make sure to include specific examples, as this will show employers that you’ve put these skills into practice. For each entry, describe what you did, the outcome of your actions, and how it has prepared you to succeed in the workplace.

Remember to keep learning

Finally, take the time to keep your resume updated as you participate in more activities and develop new skills. Whether it’s taking on a part-time job, volunteering, or starting a new project, continue to reflect on how these experiences can be turned into transferable skills that will help you in future career opportunities. By continuously building and improving your resume, you’ll be ready to seize opportunities as they arise, giving yourself a strong foundation for future success.

Show what you’re capable of

Every experience counts – even if it might not seem like it – and the skills you’re building now are the stepping stones to your future career. Engage in a variety of different activities, show employers what you’re capable of, and start building a resume that truly reflects your potential.

Want to learn more about the world of work? Check out other blogs on our website here.

Grow

Money

Top scholarships for Indigenous students

For many Indigenous students, especially those living in rural and remote communities, the path to university or higher education can feel like an uphill battle. But the good new is that scholarships are available to help make education more accessible and affordable. In this blog, we’ll explore some fantastic scholarship opportunities available specifically for Indigenous students.

Why should I apply for scholarships?

Scholarships can have a variety of benefits, but the main one is the financial support they provide. This money can help you pursue your dreams without the stress of financial burdens. They can cover a variety of costs, including:

• Tuition fees
• Accommodation
• Textbooks
• Living expenses
• And more

This allows you to focus on your studies and not worry about how you’ll pay for them. Plus, scholarships aren’t just for academic excellence. Many are also awarded for leadership skills, community involvement, or simply to support students from underrepresented backgrounds.

Scholarships for Indigenous students

There are many scholarships out there provided by governments, universities, and community groups to support Indigenous students. Here are some of the best ones:

The Smith Family Indigenous Youth Leadership Program

This program offers scholarships and leadership opportunities for Indigenous students, particularly those from very remote or regional communities. It focuses on supporting young Indigenous Australians to grow into leaders.

Find out more here.

ANU National Indigenous University Scholarship

If you’ve excelled in your secondary school studies, this scholarship is for you. It acknowledges your academic achievements and helps cover costs related to tertiary education at the Australian National University.

Find out more here.

Bendigo Bank Indigenous Scholarship Program

This scholarship is for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students who are starting their first year of tertiary study. It’s a great opportunity to get financial help as you begin your academic journey.

Find out more here.

AMA Indigenous Medical Scholarship

Dreaming of becoming a doctor but concerned about the costs? This scholarship is aimed at Indigenous students pursuing a medical degree, helping you take that first step toward a career in healthcare.

Find out more here.

Indigenous Health Scholarship Program

This scholarship supports Indigenous students pursuing careers in healthcare by helping with educational costs. It’s designed to empower the next generation of Indigenous health professionals so they can give back to their communities.

Find out more here.

Indigenous Student Success Program

This initiative helps universities fund scholarships and other support services specifically for Indigenous students. Check with the university you’re interested in to see what’s available.

Find out more here.

How do I apply?

These days, most scholarship applications are done online. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll usually need:

• Access to a computer or tablet with the internet
• An application form
• Academic transcripts or results
• A personal statement

Your personal statement is your chance to shine, so be sure to highlight:

• Your achievements
• Your community involvement
• Your cultural heritage
• How you’ve overcome challenges

Don’t be afraid to ask for help either. Teachers, mentors, mob, and universities are there to guide you.

Dream big

Scholarships can open doors to amazing opportunities. Whether you want to be a lawyer, engineer, artist, or leader in your community, a scholarship can help make that dream a reality.

You can search for more scholarship opportunities on our website here.

Volunteering

Volunteering tips for introverts

Interested in volunteering but feeling nervous about putting yourself out there? You’re not alone – many students want to make a difference but feel held back by shyness or social anxiety. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to volunteer that can work for everyone, including those who prefer quieter, less socially demanding roles. Here are some of our top volunteering tips for introverts.

Why consider volunteering?

Before we dive into the specifics, let’s take a quick look at how volunteering could benefit you personally and professionally. You could:

• Build valuable skills for your future
• Become more confident
• Gain meaningful experience
• Meet like-minded people
• Make a difference in your community
• Discover new interests and talents

Tips for overcoming volunteering anxiety

Here are some tips for introverts to help you feel more comfortable as you start your volunteering journey.

Start small

Begin with short-term or one-off volunteering opportunities rather than making a big commitment straight away – this way, you can test the waters without feeling overwhelmed.

Bring a friend

Many organisations welcome pairs or even small groups of volunteers. Having a familiar face nearby is a great way to help you feel more comfortable in a new environment.

Be honest about your comfort zone

We know it can be hard, but most volunteer coordinators appreciate knowing if you’re introverted or anxious. If you tell them up-front, they can help match you with suitable roles and provide extra support when needed.

Choose familiar environments

Consider volunteering at places you already know, like your local library or school. Just like being with a friend, a familiar setting can also help reduce anxiety about the unknown.

Volunteering suggestions for introverts

Here are some volunteering roles that might suit you if you prefer quieter, less socially demanding environments.

Admin and behind-the-scenes

If you enjoy working independently, consider behind-the-scenes roles like sorting donations at charity shops, organising books at libraries, or helping with administrative tasks. These positions often allow you to work at your own pace with minimal social interaction.

Animal care

For those of us who find communicating with their pet easier than talking to other people, look for roles where you can focus on caring for animals. You could be doing things like walking dogs, caring for foster animals, or helping with feeding, cleaning, and basic care.

Environmental projects

Have a bit of a green thumb and don’t mind getting your hands dirty? Environmental projects offer great opportunities for introverts too. You could join community gardening initiatives, tree planting events, or beach clean-ups – you can often work quietly alongside others without the pressure of constant conversation.

Online opportunities

Virtual volunteering has also become increasingly popular, offering options like digital transcription work or helping charities with their websites and social media. These roles let you contribute from the comfort of your own home, so you don’t even need to worry about leaving the couch.

Getting started

Taking the leap can be daunting, but these simple steps can help you begin your volunteering journey.

1. Research organisations in your area that interest you
2. Email rather than call if you prefer written communication
3. Ask about available roles that don’t require extensive social interaction
4. Start with just a couple of hours a week and gradually increase your involvement as you feel more comfortable
5. Be honest about your stress levels so others can help when needed
6. Remember, you can always step back if you need to – just make sure to give plenty of notice

Learn more

Being introverted doesn’t mean you can’t volunteer – it’s just about finding the right fit for you. Many organisations actually value volunteers who can work quietly and independently, so you might find what you thought was a weakness is actually an asset!

Want to explore more volunteering opportunities? Check out our website for more ideas and resources.