A university student from the Sunshine Coast is poised to enhance her skills and knowledge overseas, after receiving a coveted scholarship.
Buderim’s Natalie Mullins, who is studying a Bachelor of Science in the Charles Sturt University School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, was awarded a New Colombo Plan (NCP) scholarship to study in Singapore.
The NCP is an initiative of the Australian Government that aims to lift knowledge of the Indo-Pacific in Australia by supporting Australian undergraduates to study and undertake internships in the region.
“Being awarded an NCP scholarship is an amazing, life-changing opportunity that I am so grateful to have achieved,” Ms Mullins said.
“I am currently halfway through my Bachelor of Science, majoring in Earth Science, and am hopeful this experience will open more research opportunities abroad for me.
“My program will take place for around 12 months in Singapore where I intend to do a semester of study at the National University of Singapore with a part-time language training course and then a six-month full-time internship before returning to Australia.
“Upon my return I hope to use my newly established connections for support while undertaking my honours.”
Charles Sturt University global engagement manager Samantha Ambridge said the scholarships provided students with support to obtain vital skills and knowledge in their fields.
“The New Colombo Plan provides an excellent opportunity for … students to participate in an international study and internship experience as part of their course,” she said.
The 2024 scholarship round awarded 150 undergraduate students with support for up to 19 months of study, internships, mentorships and language training. This year two new Fellow categories were introduced: Pacific Fellow and Climate Change Fellow.
The most popular host nation destinations are Japan, Indonesia, Fiji, Singapore and the Republic of Korea.
Local journalists supporting local people. Help keep independent and fair Sunshine Coast news coming by subscribing to our FREE daily news feed. All it requires is your name and email at the bottom of this article.
