Living in a regional location in Australia can be a barrier for many young people, even more so for those looking to pursue higher education.
Murdoch University can alleviate these challenges by offering The George Alexander Foundation Scholarship, which funds accommodation and living expenses over a three or four-year undergraduate degree for those students who move to Perth.
There are eight scholarships on offer to accomplished students from regional and remote locations who have graduated from secondary school in the previous two years.
Applications for The George Alexander Foundation Scholarship close on January 29, 2023.
George Alexander, farmer, teacher, and entrepreneur, believed in ‘planting seeds and hoping they grow into pretty big trees’.
Instead of focusing on the barriers, he used his experience and intelligence to create a life filled with opportunity and success.
Today, George’s legacy provides students the opportunity to do the same.
For 2022 recipient Paris Menadue, the scholarship allowed her to relocate from Tasmania to Perth to pursue her dreams to become a vet.
“Moving to Perth was a little daunting initially but staying on campus at the Murdoch University accommodation has enabled me to make connections with other students.”
“The Scholarship enabled me to get involved in more community activities allowing me to meet new people and enjoy studying in Perth.”
“Moving to a new place where you don't know anyone can be quite stressful.
“Scholarships like the George Alexander Scholarship takes some of the stress away from the financial issues of moving, allowing you to focus on your studies and get involved in the university community.”Paris Menadue, 2022 recipient
2023 will be the 15th year Murdoch has partnered with the Foundation to deliver these scholarships, with 95 having been awarded from 2008 to 2022, with a total commitment of over $2 M in scholarships.
Manager Development Jillian Shiels said Murdoch University is the only institution in Western Australia that is supported by the Foundation, making it incredibly significant for the University and students across the state.
“Imagine relocating from your home to a new town, trying to make new friends and keeping up with expenses, as well as transitioning from school to university – it’s pretty tough. For many of our students, the George Alexander Scholarship makes this financially possible and reduces the pressure considerably,” she said.
“It is an honour for Murdoch to provide this support to our students and invite them to experience our beautiful campus, fantastic facilities and welcoming community.”Jillian Shiels, Manager Development at Murdoch University
The Honourable Susan Crennan AC KC, Governor of The George Alexander Foundation said:
“George Alexander's early life experiences of hardship and a lack of education, then later in life, the support of a scholarship, meant he was very conscious of the barriers to pursuing educational opportunities and the benefits scholarships can bring to life. As a result, he was motivated to help others access opportunities to succeed.
“In partnership with Murdoch University, The George Alexander Foundation continues its founder's ambition to support talented students to achieve their educational goals and fulfil their potential.”The Honourable Susan Crennan AC KC, Governor of The George Alexander Foundation