WITH gap years and travel plans gone awry due to COVID-19, school leavers in particular, are being supported to head to university by scholarship funding announced from Southern Cross University (SCU).

The funding comes at a time when course fees have been restructured and degrees come at a cost higher than ever seen before in our national history.

The University’s Vice President (Engagement) Mr Ben Roche has welcomed additional Federal Government funding of $1.7m under the Destination Australia scholarship program, designed to encourage students to study in regional areas.

School leavers who may not be able to afford the cost of a degree may be eligible under one of the three scholarship funding criteria.

“Southern Cross University is providing a record level of financial assistance, which includes the generosity of our donors many of whom are small local businesses that believe in the transformative power of education.

These scholarships are awarded based on a mix of equity and merit and it’s important to know that all applications, be they merit or equity based, will be carefully considered,” Mr Roche said.

“It’s important for school leavers to consider all university entry options in order to take advantage of learning at a world class institution right here in their own backyard.

“Now is the optimum time to consider applying for a Southern Cross University scholarship.”

Miriam Stewart, a Wemba Wemba woman living on Gumbaynggirr country, successfully applied for a scholarship when she enrolled in a Bachelor of Social Welfare degree and has just completed her first year.

“I just wanted the chance to be able to help people and the scholarship will allow me to achieve that.

“I picked Indigenous studies as my major and didn’t necessarily seek top marks but last semester I managed three high distinctions,” Miriam said.

Like other students and scholarship recipients, Miriam’s financial needs vary from one semester to another but she says every little bit counts.

“The scholarship helps with my fees and other things like books, a laptop, desk and even rent assistance if I need it.

Each time I only ask for what I really need and they make the whole process easy.”

The Destination Australia scholarships are worth up to $15,000 per year and other Southern Cross University scholarships can range in total value from $150 to $32,000.

“While our focus is on promoting and achieving excellence across the board, we are mindful that where possible the process of offering a university education should not discriminate,” said Mr Roche.

“Scholarship provisions can be varied, from as small as assistance with text books through to subsidising fees and other expenses.

“I encourage anyone, young or mature aged, to put their best foot forward before the end of this year.”

More information on applying for scholarships can be found at scu.edu.au/scholarships here.

 

By Sandra MOON