reflection
Week 1: The beginning of a new journey
June 3, 2026
Knowledge Gained
I wasn't actually enrolled during week 1, but it was a week of intensive research. I was looking at which course to select, and I wanted to ensure that I was making the right decision. I acquired a lot of general knowledge of interior design, it's applications and the various career paths that a graduate might take. I attended various webinars hosted by course providers, and determined which course was most suited for me.
Challenges
The biggest challenge was considering how and when I would commence my studies, while focusing on looking after my children (I'm the primary carer throughout the week). Weighing up which course would fit in with our busy family schedule, what my study might look like (online vs on campus - I prefer the latter) and whether it was even an option to begin straight away were all challenges that I needed to overcome. Continuing to research, speaking with course providers and understanding more about how their courses ran really helped. Once I really explored the Billy Blue course, and understood just how flexible it could be, the decision to get stuck in to my studies straight away was made much easier.
Successes & Strengths
Running the household often feels all consuming. Running around to daycare, pre-school, signing permission slips, returning library books, swimming lessons; there's not much time for my own personal growth. I have a lot of hobbies, interests and creative outlets, but none of these really have a structure in terms of progression. That's fine, but it can feel like I'm spinning my wheels a little. It was a real spur of the moment decision to begin the course, but it's come at a time when it feels that it makes a lot of sense. I've always had an interest in architecture and design, I love working on our home, and I'm ready for a career change. So the real success was enrolling, and taking that first step in this new journey of personal growth.
Application
I've started a Notes folder, as a bit of a catch all for all the little pieces of information that I find useful. I'm taking photos, screenshots and jotting notes, curating as I go, with the intention of being able to retrieve them nice and easily in the future.
Areas for Improvement
I know that I'm going to need to be very sharp with my time management on days and evenings outside of the 2 designated study days that I have available. I've studied before and managed multiple projects in a studio environment, but everything can go out the window if I have to look after a sick child or two!
Goals
My main goal is going to be to ease into study. Get familiar with MyLearn, and get a clear grasp on where everything is located. Modules, reading materials, recordings and assessment information. I would also like to ensure that my laptop has set up efficiently. Dropbox folders, bookmarks of important web pages, apps installed. I know that the more organised I can be, the better I will feel!