Indigenous nursing, engineering, business and environmental science students at the University of Newcastle can apply for inaugural scholarships to help fast-track their careers.
Applications for the inaugural round of the Industry Based Indigenous Scholarships close this month, and will provide recipients with financial support and experience in their field.
University of Newcastle Industry Scholarship Manager, Angela Samuels, said students would receive tax-free scholarships ranging from $14,000 to $17,000 per year, paid in fortnightly instalments.
“Supporting our Indigenous students to achieve and gain real-world experience is the aim of these inaugural scholarships,” Ms Samuels said.
“The benefits of being an Industry Scholarship scholar are twofold. The successful students will receive regular financial support while studying and the opportunity to gain valuable industry experience.
“While on placement the scholars will be given hands-on experience and the opportunity to learn how the corporate world operates while developing skills necessary to be successful in their chosen profession.”
Hunter New England Health will sponsor seven Indigenous nursing students with an annual $14,000 scholarship. Coal and Allied will sponsor two first year students, with applications invited from students studying civil, electrical or mechanical engineering, business or environmental management. They will receive $17,000 per year of study, paid in fortnightly payments.
The University has appointed an Indigenous Industry Scholarship Liaison Officer, Bundjalung man, Russell Green to help students with the application process.
“Russell will help support applicants throughout the process, meeting the students individually to help them understand the benefits of the scholarship opportunity. If they are selected to join the program, he will mentor the students to make a stress-free transition to the workplace,” Ms Samuels said.
Applications for the Indigenous Industry Based Scholarships close on Wednesday 30 March 2011. For more information on the scheme or to submit an application, visit www.newcastle.edu.au/industry-scholarships.
For more information about the Indigenous Industry Based Scholarships, contact University of Newcastle Industry Scholarship Scheme Manager Angela Samuels on 02 4921 6413. For interviews contact University of Newcastle Media and Public Relations Officer Leonie Brann on 02 4921 6856 or 0448 898 813.
