University of Tasmania student and keen cyclist Scott has found a way to juggle study, sport and work without slowing down. While racing at a high level, he completed the fast‑tracked Bachelor of Paramedicine with the support of a UTAS Elite Athlete Scholarship.
Scott is now working as a graduate paramedic with Ambulance Tasmania and continues to stay closely connected to the cycling community, riding and racing for the love of it.
“I’d always planned to complete tertiary education after I’d pursued a career in elite sport. Studying at the University of Tasmania was the most logical option as I wanted to remain in Tasmania. The fact that Bachelor of Paramedicine is a two year fast track degree was an added bonus as going to uni as a mature age student I was motivated to get it done."
Scott found the UTAS Elite Athlete Scholarship allowed him to focus on what he loves. “I received a financial scholarship to help put towards training and competition costs which was a great help. My ability to concentrate and absorb information is increased when I maintain time to get out on the bike. Having races to look forward to and work towards gave me added purpose outside study, particularly as the workload ramped up throughout each semester. Having cycling, as an outlet whilst studying allowed me to get the best out of myself when it came to sitting down for extended periods of time to read through content and complete assignments," he said.
As Scott looks ahead, his focus has shifted from juggling commitments to finding a balance that keeps him motivated.
“There’s always something motivating me and the primary factor chops and changes which means things are always kept quite fresh. Or when one thing isn’t going so well, there’s something else going on that is. I believe this makes it easier to keep forging on and improving. Now having a career outside sport, whilst still being an active part of the cycling community, I feel like I have a nice balance of work and play, ” he said.
“Going forward, maintaining balance allows me to show up to work as the best version of myself. I’ll continue to set sporting goals and fun for me is doing things that challenge me such as ultra endurance challenges and racing towards the front end of national races.”
Interested in studying health and medicine with us?
Explore your options at the University of Tasmania.
Study with us