More than a degree: Alissa’s journey to all-round excellence

A passion for health and medical research, a willingness to embrace new opportunities and a commitment to encouraging others have earned University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) PhD student Alissa Reinke top honours in the All-Round Excellence Award, at the 2026 Student Awards.

Alissa received the Award in recognition of her achievements and contributions throughout her university journey, which has encompassed academic study, research, professional development and engagement with the wider university community.

As the first person in her family to attend university, Alissa said the recognition held special meaning.

“Growing up in a regional community, opportunities in higher education and research felt like something that happened somewhere else, to other people, or that I would need to move to a big city to be successful,” she said.

“This award represents years of hard work, growth, and support from the people who encouraged me along the way.

“It reminds me how far I’ve come and what can be achieved when you’re willing to step outside your comfort zone and embrace new opportunities.”

For Alissa, university has always been about more than attending classes and completing assessments.

She has also sought opportunities to contribute to research projects, network, volunteer and take part in professional development activities.

Alissa said these experiences had enriched her education and helped her develop skills and confidence beyond the classroom.

“While I’m proud of my academic results, I’m most proud of the opportunities I embraced,” she said.

“Becoming involved in research, building professional networks, and gaining confidence in my abilities are achievements that have had a lasting impact on me.”

Discovering a passion for research has been one of the most rewarding parts of her journey.

“Having the opportunity to contribute to projects that could ultimately improve health outcomes has been incredibly fulfilling, and it’s given me a sense of purpose and direction for the future,” she said.

Alissa said the encouragement of lecturers, supervisors, mentors and fellow students had played an important role in helping her recognise and pursue opportunities she may not otherwise have considered.

“Having people who believed in me and encouraged me to take risks made a huge difference,” she said.

Looking ahead, Alissa hopes to build a career in health and medical research, contributing to solutions that improve people’s lives and deliver meaningful outcomes for regional and rural communities.

She is equally passionate about helping others recognise their own potential, whether they are school leavers considering university or people returning to study later in life.

“My university experience has shown me how life-changing education can be, and I hope to help create pathways and opportunities for others while continuing to contribute to research that benefits regional and rural communities,” she said.

Her advice to other students is to get involved and be willing to take a chance on opportunities that might initially feel intimidating.

“My advice is to stay curious and be willing to step outside your comfort zone.

“Introduce yourself to a lecturer, apply for the opportunity you’re not sure you’ll get, attend the event, or put your hand up for the project.

“The worst outcome is that nothing changes, but the best outcome could completely change the direction of your studies, your career, or your life, which for me it has.”

Learn more about the UniSQ Student Awards.

Read the full list of awardees:

Community Service Award
• Recipient: Ruby Kelly
• Highly Commended: Alissa Reinke
• Highly Commended: Efon Victorio

International Community Engagement Award
• Recipient: Gazzal Duggal
• Highly Commended: Ruby Kelly
• Highly Commended: Jahnvi Passi

Student Leader Award
• Recipient: David Petit
• Highly Commended: Alyssa Loughman
• Highly Commended: Gazzal Duggal

Outstanding Service to Sport Award
• Recipient: Amber Morris
• Highly Commended: Georgia Mailman
• Highly Commended: Karmichael Hunt

Student Voice Award
• Recipient: Josh McKeiver
• Highly Commended: Rebecca Morriss
• Highly Commended: David Petit

Australian First Nations Community Engagement Award
• Recipient: Jordan McKellar

• Student Athlete of the Year
• Recipient: Camryn Newton-Smith
• Highly Commended: Alex Epitroakis
• Highly Commended: Jai Gordon

Innovation Award
• Recipient: Priya Pal
• Highly Commended: David Petit
• Highly Commended: Rifat Islam

All-Round Excellence Award
• Recipient: Alissa Reinke
• Highly Commended: David Petit
• Highly Commended: Emma Brittain

University Values Award
• Recipient: Efon Victorio
• Highly Commended: Alissa Reinke
• Highly Commended: Christina Abraham