For Benjamin, determination outranks the ATAR

Benjamin was exploring Europe when the news of his UTS Insearch prize for being an Outstanding Graduate came through.
Benjamin was exploring Europe when the news of his UTS Insearch prize for being an Outstanding Graduate came through.

When Benjamin Wettstein found out about UTS Insearch, it almost seemed too good to be true. He had missed out on the ATAR required for his chosen degree, Bachelor of Fashion and Textiles at UTS. ‘When I didn’t get the ATAR to go directly to UTS,’ he says, ‘I looked for another way and found UTS Insearch. It’s basically a comprehensive stepping-stone into UTS, and it’s just been great.’

Design and fashion are passions for Benjamin, who supports himself by marketing vintage clothing online, and having the opportunity to study something he loves has brought out the best in the alumnus of Sydney’s prestigious Barker College. He says, ‘When I was at high-school, I did okay, but I was never a star student. It wasn’t until I came to UTS Insearch to study something I enjoy that I put a lot more effort in.’

In fact, Benjamin, who has just completed his Diploma in Design and Architecture at UTS Insearch, did so well he won the Outstanding Graduate award for his course, a $5000 prize for being the top student. ‘Winning this prize has shown me what you can achieve when you do something you love,’ he says.

Now preparing to continue his Bachelor’s degree at UTS, Benjamin appreciates the extra confidence he developed at UTS Insearch. He says, ‘At UTS Insearch, especially in the design stream, you really learn how to present your ideas. I remember I was very anxious at school giving presentations, but now I’ve learnt to really enjoy it.’

Benjamin’s experience has taught him that it takes more than an ATAR to hold you back when you know what you want. ‘If you’re truly determined to do something, there’s no reason you can’t do it. If you’re determined, you can always do the thing you want to do,’ he says. ‘UTS Insearch is a great opportunity that helps you transfer into your academic future.’