Giving more students a head start

The Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships program, which awards two scholarships to undergraduate students each year, is set to double and offer a total of four scholarships in 2008.

Since 2002, the Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships Fund has made the transition to university easier for two new University of Adelaide students every year. Entirely funded by alumni and other members of the public, the scholarships program is set to expand after receiving outstanding support.

In 2008, four scholarships will help academically-gifted students gain a start at university, providing $5000 support per year for the duration of their degree. Selection for the scholarships is based on academic merit and financial need, and at least one scholarship each year is awarded to a student from a rural area.

For many undergraduate students, the cost of living, combined with course fees and university expenses, can be a financial burden that detracts from university life and study. Others must relocate from interstate or from rural areas to study, adding to the financial pressures of beginning university.

This year's Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship recipients, Michael Noble and Tiffany Hams, both moved away from their family, friends and hometowns in order to start their tertiary education.

Michael relocated over 500 kilometres from his family's farm on the Eyre Peninsula to study agriculture at Roseworthy, while Tiffany, who is studying a double degree in Science and Law, moved to Adelaide from Kangaroo Island.

Michael said the Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship has eased the transition to university, helping with moving costs, accommodation at Roseworthy Residential College, as well as fees, academic supplies and textbooks.

"It has taken the financial pressure off my parents," he said. "I'd like to thank all of those who donated to the Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships Fund. The scholarship has made the transition from home to the University to study a lot easier."

While adjusting to the city lifestyle has been challenging, it has also been an opportunity Michael has relished. "I'm glad I moved out of my comfort zone," he said. "Getting to meet new people from all other parts of SA and interstate gives me access to a network of different ideas, different ways of thinking and lots of knowledge in relation to agriculture."

Being awarded the Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship has also made a big difference to Tiffany. Studying on the University's North Terrace campus, Tiffany said she is enjoying her first year as a busy undergraduate student.

"The atmosphere at the University is great, the lecturers are very passionate, and there are many people available to help with any problems," Tiffany said. "The buildings and grounds on the North Terrace campus are beautiful and the location is very convenient."

Tiffany said the Scholarship has contributed towards the cost of transport, textbooks, rent and other expenses. "The Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship has really helped me move away from home and begin my university education, and allows me to focus on my studies. I'd like to sincerely thank the donors to the Fund." ■

For more information, or to give to the Vice-Chancellor's Fund, please visit www.adelaide.edu.au/alumni/giving/appeals/vc/ or contact Development and Alumni on +61 8 8303 4275 or helen.paul@adelaide.edu.au

STORY LANA GUINEAY