Seven inspiring Murdoch University undergraduates have been awarded Westpac Young Technologist scholarships to help them explore their passions.
First year students Mark Snow, Rosemary Atkinson, Natasha Gill, Brierley O’Donnell, Steve Orange, Braiden Robson and Brodie Greenham-Leach will each receive $5,000 annually for up to five years of their studies.
The students will also benefit from internship and networking opportunities organised by the Westpac Scholars Trust to help them develop as stronger leaders and turn their curiosity in technology-enabled solutions into successful careers.
Rosemary, who is studying environmental engineering, said the scholarship would give her the opportunity to meet people passionate about innovation and changing the world.
I hope my studies and this scholarship will result in me becoming a passionate environmental engineer who understands how the different disciplines of technology can interconnect to enact positive change for the future,” she said.
Games technology student Steve said he wants to find a way, through virtual reality, to help tackle important issues like drink driving and conservation.
“The design and production of video games has been a lifelong passion for me. In learning game design and development, I would like to find a way to connect with a younger demographic,” he said.
Describing himself as a futurist, electrical engineering student Braiden said the scholarship would help him to focus on his studies.
“I’m interested in technology and how it shapes the future of society and life, specifically new energy sources such as renewables and products like electric cars and smart devices. My dream career is to work on renewable hybrid energy storage projects,” he said.
Internetworking and Network Security student Brodie said he was looking forward to becoming part of a tightly connected network of people with similar goals, interests and aspirations.
“The scholarship brings us together to work on a common goal for ourselves and our communities,” he said.
Natasha, who is studying laboratory medicine and forensic biology and toxicology, said she was interested in learning how the human body works, and how medical technology can assist.
“The scholarship is an opportunity to work with like-minded people to create a better future using the technology we already have and what we develop with our shared knowledge,” she said.
Integrating new technologies
Studying computer science, Brierley is interested in integrating new technologies in society.
“My goal is to work in a field that has something to do with computer science and/or cyber security. I’m looking forward to establishing an accessible network of people sharing similar views,” she said
Computer science student Mark said the scholarship was the first step on the path towards fulfilling his dreams of pursuing a career in computer science.
“It is also the first exposure to a network of experienced and unique technologists, who I am really excited to work with,” he said.
The seven students took part in the annual Westpac Scholars Summit earlier this month in Sydney. The event brings together all 2019 Westpac Scholars (100 in total) for two days of connection, inspiration and celebration.
The students heard from a number of inspiring speakers including the Founder of M.A.D for Peace, Gill Hicks, and Westpac Scholars alumni Mikhara Ramsing, social entrepreneur and 2019 Young Australian of the Year QLD nominee, and Julian O’Shea, Founder of UnBound. Westpac Group CEO Brian Hartzer and Westpac Scholars Trust Chairman, former Chief Information Officer for Westpac Group, Dave Curran, also attended.
Murdoch is one of five Australian universities to partner with the Westpac Scholars Trust on the scheme. This is the first year the University has awarded the scholarships.
For more information on the Westpac Young Technologists Scholarship, visit the Westpac Scholars Trust website.
Pictured above, from left to right, are: Steven Orange, Mark Snow, Brierley O'Donnell, Brodie Greenham-Leach, Natasha Gill, Rosemary Atkinson and Braiden Robson.