What started out with a listing on the scholarships directory, turned into a journey filled with internships, networking, and concluded with a sought after graduate position with Westpac.
Mark Snow is a common name among the Murdoch team. Known for his enthusiasm and success story, Mark has forged his own path through his studies at Murdoch University.
Kicking off his Murdoch journey, Mark enrolled in a Bachelor of Information Technology majoring in Computer Science and a newly awarded Westpac Young Technologists Scholarship under his belt.
“I got the opportunity to put the skills I’d learnt in my classes at uni into practice with an internship doing software development and casual work as a Junior Technical Consultant at Westpac.
“I was able to access these opportunities thanks to the scholarship!”
Originally finding the scholarship listed on our website, Mark couldn’t have known the exciting ride he would be in for over the course of his degree.
This is because the Westpac Young Technologists Scholarship doesn’t just offer a financial benefit, but an array of mentorship and networking opportunities, with a national conference trip as the grand conclusion.
The scholarship provided me with plenty of networking opportunities and connections - including an awesome group of fellow scholar friends!
It was these friends he got to travel to Sydney with for the Westpac Scholars Summit – a chance to meet with scholars like himself from across the country.
“Westpac funded this trip to Sydney for professional development and networking – it was a very memorable and valuable experience.”
Reflecting on the benefit of the scholarship – there was also the $20,000 grant in question.
“The grant alleviated the financial stress of uni life and allowed me to focus on my studies. The funds also assisted with moving out and living costs – a real weight off!”
With a degree filled with real-world experience and a major in Computer Science, it is no surprise that Mark accumulated an impressive resume. It was this experience and the skills he developed over his degree that led him to his post-graduation role at Australian bank, Westpac – the very funding body of his scholarship.
“My application to the Westpac graduate program was greatly boosted by the experiences I took part in while at uni,”
“I ended up landing a role working in the rotational technology graduate program.
My studies at Murdoch provided me with skills that have directly transferred into my work in software development and cyber security at Westpac.
Reflecting on his experience, Mark only had positive sentiments to pass onto prospective students looking to follow a similar path to himself.
“I definitely didn’t think I would be awarded any scholarships but decided to submit an application anyway. And I am so glad that I did. Apply for it, even if you think you’re not going to get it.
“It’s an amazing experience with so many networking experiences and work opportunities. Make the most of the experiences and opportunities that come your way and enjoy uni life while it lasts. It goes quick!”
Interested by Mark’s story and want to apply for the Westpac Young Technologist Scholarship yourself? Check out the eligible courses and get your application started!