'Safe home' a vital ingredient for achieving life goals

31 Mar 2020

“I now have plans to attend university and study a Bachelor Degree in Paramedicine. I became more dedicated and passionate about getting into university about halfway through Year 12 because I had a safe home base at Horizon House, which helped me consider my options for my future,” Kristyl said. 

“I found out I received an ATAR of 80 and have been offered two scholarships to Monash University.” 

Kristyl is not your average high school graduate. She is also a Ballarat local and State Champion volleyball athlete – a sport that’s been a passion of hers for four years now. 

The 17-year-old has been awarded most valuable player in the past and was part of a team that won two grand finals. 

“I love volleyball because of the social aspect and the friendships I have made. I love being a part of a team and celebrating together,” Kristyl said. 

She credits Horizon House for helping her develop independent life skills and expanding her horizons. 

“Horizon House has helped me gain independence which has allowed me mature and consider my plans for the future,” she said. 

“Living at Horizon House has allowed me truly focus on my education and consider what I want to do as a career path, considering when I first moved in I didn’t care about ATAR scores or university applications and now I am more focused than ever before and have achieved the goals I set for myself.” 

Kristyl’s favourite aspect of Horizon House has been the caregivers that support her on her journey every day.

“The best thing about being in the Horizon House program is knowing that I have support from the caregivers, who celebrate my achievements,” she said. 

“Horizon House is a safe, homely environment where you can receive support and work towards achieving your goals. I would highly recommend it to any young person struggling with safe and secure accommodation.”