Top tips on applying for a Westpac Young Technologists Scholarship

Securing a university scholarship can be a transformative experience, opening doors to unique opportunities and experiences. We know the application process can sometimes feel a little daunting, so we spoke to 2023 Young Technologist, Charlie McMahon, who shared his top 3 application tips, as well as some valuable insights and reflections on his experience as a Westpac Scholar. 

 

Charlie’s top 3 application tips

 

1. Be yourself!

The first piece of advice is a timeless one - be yourself. The application process is not just about showcasing your achievements; it's about revealing who you are as a person and what drives you. Don’t be afraid to talk about yourself, your passions and your aspirations. The scholarship selection committee wants to understand the person behind the application, so be authentic and let your unique qualities shine through.

 

2. Think about how you want to change the world 

This scholarship is about making a real-world impact. During the application process, take the time to brainstorm and articulate how you envision changing the world to make it a better place. Write down your best ideas, no matter how crazy they may seem at first. This scholarship is looking for individuals with the vision and determination to make a difference, so don't hold back when expressing your innovative ideas and ambitions.

 

3. Take your time

There’s no need to rush or leave your application to the last minute. Take a couple of days to reflect on your experiences, goals, and the impact you want to make. Taking your time not only helps in producing a well-crafted application but also ensures that you are aligned with the scholarship's values and goals.

 

As Charlie reflected on his last year as a Westpac Young Technologist, he shared how it has changed his life, and opened up doors for him to inspire good in the world of STEM.

 

“This is not a scholarship to just put on your LinkedIn, forget about and go on with your life,” said Charlie. “It’s a scholarship to enable you to truly succeed, be involved with the community, and actually make an impact.”

 

Charlie attended the Westpac Scholars Summit in Sydney earlier this year, which was a real highlight of the program for him. The two-day event brings together all 100 scholars from around the country along with leaders from the W100 Network – to celebrate, learn, connect and gain an inspiring glimpse into what it means to become a part of the Westpac Scholars community.

 

“The highlight for me so far was definitely meeting all the Young Tech scholars at the summit in Sydney. It’s surreal to me to know that there are so many likeminded individuals striving to make a difference through the innovation of tech.”

 

Many potential applicants suffer from imposter syndrome and think that a scholarship like this might be out of their reach, but all you have to do is take that first step and apply. When we asked Charlie what a day in the life of a scholar looked like, he said he was just a regular person who is enjoying the university lifestyle.

 

“Most days I’ll wake up, make a coffee, go to work or Uni, hang out with my friends in the afternoon, post on my food blog, go to sleep, and repeat!”

 

Applications for 2024 Westpac Young Technologist Scholarships are open until Monday 15 January 2024. Apply now.

 

 

Published 15 December 2023