School leavers benefit from USQ Scholarships

High school leavers in the Springfield area are being encouraged to apply for University of Southern Queensland (USQ) Scholarships when they complete their QTAC applications this year.

USQ is offering various scholarships for school leavers including Year 12 Student Scholarships, School Partners Program Scholarships, Chancellor's Scholarship and Springfield Education City Scholarships.

First year Education student, Sasha San-Martin, was awarded a Springfield Education City Scholarship this year.

'More than anything the scholarship has given me the motivation to study,' she said.

'I have to maintain a certain Grade Point Average to receive the rest of the scholarship so it's actually made me sit down and study.'

And while most students put the money towards buying text books and the cost of their program students can spend the money on whatever they like.

Chancellor's Scholarship recipient, Peta Butcher, has put her money toward paying her university fees up front.

'The Scholarship has helped me to pay of most of the costs of my study, so I'll be better off in the long run,' Peta said.

'With only having a minimal amount to pay I'll be able to get ahead a lot quicker and buy a house.'

Dozens of students, like Sasha and Peta, have benefited from the scholarships. Sasha has these words of advice for those considering applying.

'Don't be afraid to apply, because you never know,' she said.

'I wasn't sure whether or not I would get it and I did. USQ Springfield has been really good and I am really pleased I decided to come here to study.'

For more information on scholarships visit USQ's Scholarship website at: www.usq.edu.au/scholarships

Scholarship applicaitons close on Friday 27 October 2006. Winners will be advised prior to Friday 22 December 2006.

Media Contact: Fiona Taylor, USQ Media, +61 7 3470 4117