Just to set the record straight I love Penrith.

I must admit my attitude to the area differed four years ago, but it was the tranquil environment at the Werrington South University of Western Sydney (UWS) campus that transformed my judgment.

I love the dominating blanket of greenery which covers the landscape, wildlife, the chance to embrace the pleasures nature has to offer and to cease rushing and reflect on one's thoughts.

There is no other place I would pursue my tertiary study.

So why is it that I am pitied for having to come to the area?

Many people hold the opinion that once you're beyond Parramatta it's all desert, and I find I am judged for going to a university in Penrith.

When are people going to think outside the square and realise there is so much more out here and so much potential Penrith can offer?

UWS uses many identical textbooks and facilities to other universities and the ongoing support from staff ensure all ambitions are achieved.

I can't determine the difference just like any other place in the west; Penrith is the place to be.

I recently came across an article on the web referring to the boost of jobs and infrastructure in western Sydney.

Penrith is classified as a regional city and is set to become a major employment hub. I haven't witnessed any high demands for employment opportunities.

There are so many great things Penrith has to offer: Penrith Panthers, one of the biggest clubs in western Sydney, Westfield, the Whitewater Stadium, Nepean River, a UWS campus stretching across three sites, and it is at the foot of the Blue Mountains.

So maybe if there was more investment in Penrith, residents wouldn't have to travel to the ends of the world just to get to work and people will be obliged to visit the area.

This is an ultimate lesson to all: don't judge a book by its cover, come down and see what's inside.

If Penrith is given that chance I believe it can become one of the biggest employment, investment and tourism hotspots in the west.

When will people stop being ignorant about western Sydney?