Deacon Johnston’s first and strongest source of pride is his daughters.
But his second was the moment he crossed the University of Southern Queensland stage on Thursday to officially become a university graduate.
Deacon graduated with a Bachelor of Laws after a long journey to change careers from garbage truck driver to lawyer.
His dedication and commitment to the degree culminated in his current role as an associate to a Queensland Supreme Court judge.
“In a practical sense, graduating means less time spent studying late into the night and over weekends, and that I am able to be more present with my family,” he said.
“But more directly, it is perhaps the single greatest achievement of my life in an effort sense, although the achievement I will always be most proud of is my daughters.”
Deacon decided to take on the difficult task of a law degree while working full-time and growing his family.
He first completed the University of Southern Queensland’s Tertiary Preparation Pathway program and then enrolled in a Bachelor of Laws.
He said he did not miss the late nights and 1am alarms that were necessary to achieve his goals during study.
“The juggle of a full time job (usually with plenty of overtime), a study load with a focus on achieving good grades, and maintaining a healthy family life was often a struggle,” he said.
“However, my wife is now, and always has been, a superstar. It is because of her that I not only started the degree, but was able to be successful.”
“I have been intellectually stimulated, met some great people, and really love what I do, each and every day.
Deacon is also an academic tutor, helping other students navigate their university experience.
He had two pieces of advice for people making the same switch he did.
“First, immerse yourself as much as possible. You will get out of study only what you put in,” he said.
“Second, be realistic. By that, I mean that I think one should be realistic about their expectations of themselves, and of others.
“This includes your study load, your results, and your effort levels. All of these things will help you balance your experience, and keep you on a successful path.”
Deacon joined other University of Southern Queensland graduates from across law and justice, science, humanities and information technology in Thursday’s ceremony at Ipswich Civic Centre.
