They've overcome challenges to arrive at university and now 34 talented QUT students have been named the 2017 Tim Fairfax AC Learning Potential Fund Scholars.
While the scholars have all previously secured their place at QUT, they have each faced significant financial and personal obstacles that could have prevented them completing their studies.
Last week, they were each presented with a scholarship worth between $5000 and $7500 that will make their journey more viable.
QUT Chancellor Tim Fairfax established the scholarships with a gift to the QUT Learning Potential Fund, which has so far helped more than 100 students - many of whom come from rural, remote and regional areas in Queensland and the Northern Territory.
Second-year QUT pharmacy student Daniel Corhodzic, from Cairns, gave the vote of thanks at this year's scholarships presentation and said the scholarship had made a big difference to his life.
"I was contemplating deferring my studies to earn money to support myself ... And then I got a call from the Learning Potential Fund," he said.
"My goal in life has always been to be a healthcare worker and give back to the community in a life-changing way – and I can honestly say that if it hadn’t been for the scholarship, I would be doing something other than what I love, always asking 'what if?'"
QUT Alumni and Development Office Director Simone Garske said Mr Fairfax’s scholarships were reflective of his dedication to ensuring socio-economic factors did not prevent ambitious students from reaching their goals.
"We work hard to boost opportunities for those from disadvantaged backgrounds to attend university, but without the support of generous philanthropists like Mr Fairfax, far too many go without support," she said.
"Thanks to Mr Fairfax’s gift, more than 100 students have received financial support, but more importantly they’re completing their studies with the knowledge that their university’s Chancellor believes they are worthy of being given every opportunity to succeed."
For more information on the QUT Learning Potential Fund or to give, please visit the Learning Potential Fund website or email LearningPotentialFund@qut.edu.au.
For more information on equity scholarships, please visit the scholarships website or email equityscholarships@qut.edu.au.
Media contact: media@qut.edu.au
