The Westpac Young Technologists Scholarship is helping Murdoch students like Natasha to receive financial support, however the real value comes through access to internships, inspiring mentors, leadership development and networking opportunities.
Natasha didn’t have a definite plan for what she was going to do after high school. However, she always had a fascination with science stemming from her family health battles.
For Natasha, the Westpac Young Technologists Scholarship helped in her decision making.
“I knew I wanted to go to university, but I didn’t really know what I particularly wanted to study or where. I applied for the scholarship mainly because I wanted to get involved on the networking side of things. I’m fascinated by the interactions between different fields in STEM, and I wanted to be able to make the connections that would allow me to be a part of that.
Studying a Bachelor of Science, majoring in Laboratory Medicine, she’s had the opportunity to be one of the state representatives for the Westpac Scholars Trust for 2020-21 and a national executive co-chair for 2021-2022. This allows Natasha to help organise some fantastic social and professional events.
I’ve had the opportunity to meet and chat with some truly inspiring game changers – academics, CEOs, entrepreneurs, you name it! The connections I’ve made because of the scholarship are definitely career-shaping, and I’ve been able to get out of my comfort zone in a more professional context.
Making the most of the scholarship experience
The Young Technologists scholarship is so much more than just a scholarship – it’s a network that can open any door, from professional placements in a corporate environment, to volunteering opportunities with some of Australia’s most innovative social enterprises, even to friendships with an amazingly brilliant and diverse range of people.
“Studying at Murdoch University has provided me a hands-on approach to learning. My degree will have given me the industry-standard practical skills for the workplaces I’ll move into.
"When I graduate, I want to be able to make a difference. I’d love to be able to contribute to research and lab work that means I can create change in people’s lives and the lives of their families.”
How the Westpac Young Technologists Scholarship could benefit you
If you're a talented and inquisitive high school graduates looking to strengthen your passion and expertise in technology to innovate and create new opportunities and inspire good in the world of STEM, you could be eligible for the Westpac Young Technologists scholarship valued at $20,000. There are multiple scholarships to be awarded, across a wide range of degree programs.
The real value of this scholarship, however, comes through opportunities and experiences that would be otherwise out of reach.
Like Natasha, students have access to paid internship opportunities and inspiring mentors, as well as an international learning experience in Asia. Best of all, scholars become a lifelong member of the Westpac 100 Scholars Network, an inclusive group of some of the brightest minds in Australia.
“If I could give any future Murdoch students considering applying for the scholarship advice, I would tell them to go for it! The Young Technologists scholarship provided me with lifelong friendships, connections and more ideas than you could possibly imagine. By putting your hand up, you’re taking the first step out of your comfort zone and the first step towards your full potential as a leader in the future of Australia.”