On 23 September, among the hundred students collecting their graduation certificates from USP’s Pacific TAFE Statham campus stood a quiet and reserved David Patrick Whippy ably supported by his buddy and close friend.
An ecstatic David who has been blind from birth finally fulfilled one of his aspirations – he graduated with a Diploma of Human Resources Management (Level 5) from USP Pacific TAFE.
“I have a simple message to all my friends living with disability for them not look at their disability but count them as your abilities,” he said. “Most of us living with or without disability give up too easily in our lives – we faced with challenges in life we tend to give up too easily at times – I have learned the hard way and I am happy that I have achieved one of my dreams today.”
David said despite the challenges his family had been very supportive during his academic journey – he had to put in the extra effort to ensure he performed well at school and at Pacific TAFE.
“My family are very supportive and I had to ensure that I performed well at school,” he said. “The staff and facilities at USP Pacific TAFE are friendly – even individuals with disabilities are able to transition well using voice recognition software etc.”
“I am hopeful that I will find employment soon,” David said. “I will to also further my education at USP majoring in Human resources.
