THREE Medowie young people were recipients of the recently awarded Port Stephens Mayoral Academic Scholarships.

Anneka Zerbes, Sarah Swainson and Lachlan White were chosen this year, based on their academic performance and community involvement.

Applicants apply online, and then are shortlisted and interviewed by a panel of judges about their academic results, community involvement, strengths and career thoughts and plans.

Anneka, Sarah and Lachlan all attended Medowie Public School, growing up together, before all heading off to separate secondary schools.

Anneka attended St Francis Xavier College, Sarah went to Irrawang High School and Lachlan attended Irrawang High School until Year 10, before moving to Merewether High to complete years 11 and 12.

Winners of the scholarship were awarded $2,000 to spend on items for their education or career path.

Sarah now attends Newcastle University, where she is studying a Bachelor of Creative Industries, with a view to doing a Master of Teaching and be involved in the Creative Arts.

Sarah told News Of The Area, “The Mayoral Scholarships are a wonderful initiative by Council, benefiting young people from all walks of life.”

“It has given all recipients the same opportunities for University or life past high school, giving us a leg up with textbooks, that can be so hard”.

Anneka Zerbes is attending Newcastle University, completing a Bachelor of Nursing.

She hopes to someday work as a paramedic, or within ER traumatology.

Anneka told News Of The Area, “The application process was a great experience and I learnt a lot”
“The professional interview experience gave me great insight and practice with future interviews and life situations.”

Lachlan White is also studying at Newcastle University, and is completing a degree in Mechanical Engineering, whilst also competing at an elite level in sailing.

Lachlan told News Of The Area, “I was honoured to be accepted as a recipient in the Mayoral Scholarships.”

“The experience was a lot of fun, and I have put my scholarship to good use for University texts and training costs for Sailing.”

The Port Stephens Mayoral Academic Scholarships are awarded yearly.

You can find information on the applications opening toward the end of 2017 on the Port Stephens Council Website.

 

By Rachael VAUGHAN