BENDIGO TAFE's animal studies student Jessica Stone has been named 7NEWS Young Achiever Awards VIC's Inspirational TAFE Student.
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The 27 year old's autism diagnosis has meant she has had to overcome additional challenges in her education, including struggling with environmental changes, sensory overload, challenges with understanding large chunks of information and difficulty with communication.
However, the Kangan Institute sponsored award recognises students who overcome significant adversity in their education - and Ms Stone has done just that.
Ms Stone worked closely with Bendigo TAFE's teachers and accessibility and disability support officers to create a learning experience tailored to her needs.
Ms Stone said the award win came as a surprise and expressed her gratitude to her teachers and support workers.
"I never expected to win; I feel very proud, excited and overwhelmed," she said.
"I would like to thank Emma Lanera (animal studies teacher) and Jodie Kemp, my support worker at TAFE, who helped me overcome the tough times over the years while doing animal studies."
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Ms Stone hopes to inspire others to dream big and believe in themselves.
"Anything can be possible, just believe in yourself," she said.
Bendigo TAFE chief executive Sally Curtain congratulated Ms Stone on her success.
"Congratulations to Jessica on this much deserved award," she said. "Jessica's determination to succeed in education and in life, even in the face of challenges, is an absolute inspiration for us all and Bendigo TAFE is proud to be part of her training journey," said Ms Curtain.
"Her success also reflects strong support from her teachers and disability officers at Bendigo TAFE. We are an all-inclusive education provider, with our students at the centre of everything we do, and we cherish our important role in the community in supporting all students to achieve personal and professional success."
Ms Stone is now working on completing her Certificate IV in Animal Studies.
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