From Springfield to Oxford: How UniSQ opened doors close to home

Twenty years after the University of Southern Queensland Springfield campus opened to bring university education closer to local families, Taylah Anthony is proof of how far that vision can reach.

After beginning her studies at UniSQ Springfield in 2023, the Bachelor of Primary Education student is now preparing for her next chapter after recently being offered a place in a master’s program at the University of Oxford.

“I thought university was going to be massive lectures, but I walked in and it was a classroom environment and super casual,” Taylah said.

“The lecturers said, ‘Call me by my first name,’ and I was like, ‘Oh, okay.’

“It was really relaxed and a great vibe right from the start.”

After graduating from nearby Calamvale Community College, Taylah said studying locally at UniSQ Springfield allowed her to remain close to family while building new opportunities for her future.

“It’s been really great to stay close to home,” she said.

“It’s also great not having to pay rent. Being able to stay home and save money while studying has been good.”

For Taylah, the Springfield campus became more than just a place to study. The supportive campus environment helped give her the confidence to take on leadership opportunities and become involved in student life.

“I’ve been able to build clubs with the support of the people around me, including the lecturers and my peers, and now it’s opened up so many doors,” she said.

“I honestly don’t think I would have had this opportunity had I studied anywhere else.

As UniSQ Springfield marks two decades of supporting students across one of Australia’s fastest-growing regions, Taylah’s story reflects the campus’s long-standing focus on community connection and opportunity close to home.

She said one of the defining features of the Springfield experience was the strong sense of community among students and staff.

For future students considering Springfield, Taylah’s advice is simple: get involved.

“Take advantage of all the resources you have as a student,” she said. “There’s so much support available.”

Learn more about the UniSQ Springfield 20th anniversary.