Ms Pannowitz has successfully completed her first year of a Bachelor of Laws degree through the Charles Darwin University from the comfort of Leeton.

She is studying via distance, but is also taking advantage of the Country Universities Centre located here in Leeton.

"I commenced studying law about 15 years ago while working at a law firm as a paralegal, but undertook a career change into Workplace Health and Safety (WHS)," Ms Pannowitz said.

"I have worked in various WHS roles across the rail, construction, mining and manufacturing sectors developing, implementing and auditing safety systems.

"I decided to go back to undertake my bachelor of laws as it will compliment my current qualifications and role, and give me the ability to advance my career in the WHS setting. It will also give me the ability to change careers if the opportunity arises, particularly in a rural area."

IN OTHER NEWS:

By being able to complete her degree via distance with the assistance of the Country Universities Centre in Leeton, Ms Pannowitz said it helps to ease the burden and gives her more flexibility.

"I use the centre as often as I can, it provides a quiet place without the distraction of the house and lets me focus on what I need to get done," she said.

"I have four children aged 9, 7, 6 and 18 months, so it's nice to be able to have a quiet place to study without distraction.

"It's good to know that you can interact with other students, who might not be studying the same degree, but are in the same position as you, studying by distance.

"Myself and another student used the training room for a semester intensive, which meant we could use our own laptops and use the conferencing TV to watch the lectures.

"It was a great way to participate and made me feel like I was actually on campus."

Ms Pannowitz also said the centre had given her access to a learning skills advisor.

"(This) assisted through breaking down essay questions and what the key words from the question are really asking," she said.

"(It's also) someone to bounce ideas off and proof-read assignments.

"You would be surprised how many people are studying online in Leeton and are happy to help and support each other.

"There is also a great community among the online students and I have made friends from all around the country."

If you would like to find out more about the Country Universities Centre in Leeton, touch base with manager Erin Callaghan on 0436 461 003, email erin.callaghan@cucwesternriverina.edu.au or visit cucwesternriverina.edu.au.