By Aidan Arbuckle, Westpac Scholar, 2016 Young Technologist
If you’re reading this, then you’ve heard of the Westpac Scholarship program and are probably asking yourself is this really for me?
The answer is yes. For a lot of reasons. The scholarship offers a range of benefits from funds to events to a supportive network invested in you. Ultimately though, it is really a means of helping you become the best version of yourself.
One of the biggest highlights of being a Westpac Scholar is the Scholars’ Annual Summit, a large-scale event bringing together scholars, past and present, from all states. It introduces the new Westpac Scholars to the W100 Network (W100) – the official alumni program.
For my first Scholars Summit back in 2016, I was flown to Sydney from Perth. As my very first networking event, it was quite daunting and nerve-wracking. Regardless, it gave me a chance to build my confidence and networking skills, which I’ve carried with me through university and beyond. Whilst a massive gathering of Westpac Scholars from across the country isn’t possible right now due to Covid, we still celebrate the spirit of the W100 through virtual summits in an effort to stay connected.
Every Westpac Scholar gets the opportunity to attend the Summit. And within each scholarship stream there are a range of other benefits, including funding. This financial support can go towards what you might need for your degree; research you might be conducting; or even social initiatives you’re leading that contribute to the greater good. The Westpac Young Technologists Scholarship for example, provides you with $5,000 a year over three years. I used this to purchase a laptop as well as materials for university and textbooks (yes, textbooks!).
When you become a member of the W100, you become a member of a community that supports you. You get the opportunity to connect with other like-minded individuals with similar goals and interests. It also provides opportunities to help you develop your skills for future careers, whether that involves resume writing, research, or networking. One perfect example is the W100 Mentoring Program. This is run by scholars for scholars and aims to help you with your personal and professional growth.
Being a Westpac Scholar, you have access to all these opportunities and more. If you are thinking about applying for the Westpac Young Technologists Scholarship, don’t hesitate. It is worth it!
Published 12 October 2021
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