University of Southern Queensland celebrates twin achievements

The Baron twins found the right blend of academic learning and pastoral support at the University of Southern Queensland.

The University of Southern Queensland proved a natural fit for the Baron brothers. Photo: Supplied

Twins Zivanko and Zivago Baron are identical, and they faced an identical problem when they embarked on their university careers: the institution and courses they chose first did not fulfil their needs.

Zivanko, who had enrolled in engineering, was the first to make the switch to the University of Southern Queensland, where he decided to pursue an education degree in maths and science. He completed his course two years ago.

Zivago discontinued studies in creative arts to enrol in a sport and exercise degree at USQ, which he completed in July.

Now 25, the brothers recently graduated together, in the first ceremony the university has been able to hold since 2019.

“It’s been a long journey for both of us, but this ceremony means I can be proud of not only what I have achieved during university, but proud of what my brother has accomplished as well,” Zivanko said.

Zivago said he had made a lot friends while at USQ and had remained close to them despite Covid-19 disrupting on-campus classes.

“What I enjoyed most about USQ was the small class sizes and the connection I was able to make with my lecturers and other students,” he said.

Both already have jobs: Zivago as a community exercise physiologist, working with clients living with disability and mental health issues and Zivanko at Marsden State High School.

“Teaching is such a rewarding career where you can make an actual difference in young people’s lives,” Zivanko said. “There’s nothing more satisfying than seeing one of your students have that light bulb moment and suddenly figure out something they have struggled to understand.”