The scholarships also offer summer work and guaranteed employment on the West Coast on completion of the applicant’s tertiary study. They are designed to grow and retain highly qualified West Coast rangatahi on the West Coast by removing barriers to training and employment.
Zoe Double, a 2023 DWC scholarship recipient from Greymouth High School, is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Environmental Science at Lincoln University. She says her studies are opening a wide range of potential industries and career opportunities.
“I could work in environmental consultancy doing comminated land mitigation, or with farmers on becoming more biodiverse, or in water health monitoring or take a more ecological route and work in conservation. I'm considering more outdoorsy careers that allow me to be more involved in the hands-on aspect of the industry,” she says.
Zoe's love for the West Coast played a role in her decision to study at Lincoln University. "I love the small, close-knit community environment we have here.”
For Zoe, the DWC scholarship is not just about funds – it's about possibilities. Financially, it's eased her stay by covering her halls of residence fees, allowing her to focus on her studies. Moreover, the scholarship has paved the way for numerous networking opportunities.
"The DWC scholarship has provided me with so many connections and made me more recognisable for potential opportunities."
For those contemplating applying for the DWC tertiary scholarships, Zoe has straightforward advice: "Do it! Why not? The networking, connections, aid with employment, and, of course, the scholarship funds make this such an incredible opportunity."
Applications for the DWC Tertiary Scholarships close 5pm on Monday, 4 September 2023.
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