Written by Kyle Cervo
University can be a hard, long and stressful endeavour that tests many parts of a person. I am just about to wrap up my final year of the Bachelor of Paramedicine up here in beautiful Port Macquarie.
As with many degrees, we complete several months of compulsory work placement. No surprise to any of you, the stress associated with funding, attending and persevering through work-integrated learning is substantial.
Getting to these placements, finding accommodation, eating, paying the bills at home and coming back to do it all over again costs large amounts of money, which we do not generally possess as casual or part-time workers.
Scholarships are an incredible way to assist you in attending placements, and often, they can be used to fund any part of your studies.
I was ecstatic to be granted the National Priorities and Industry Linking Fund (NPILF) Career Ready Grant of $1,000 in 2024 and the entire message behind this post is to ensure you apply for one too!
You can apply through the scholarships website and the next round closes on October 15, 2024, so get in quick!
The application process for this grant was straight-forward and can be found on the scholarships website.
For me, it was a short application including some of my income information. I heard back shortly after and received the funds just after census date.
Even if you think you do not meet the criteria exactly, it is the same as applying for a job. Put your hat in the ring and see what happens, applying is free and getting the grant is completely worth it.
I often hear from universities that sometimes they have more grants to give away than students that apply… So do not count yourself out!
The $1,000 I received went towards my recent Charles Sturt Global trip to Vanuatu where I spent two weeks finalising my placement obligations. This money was direct deposited into my account and I could use it to fund my flights, living expenses and course fees.
As expected, this amazing opportunity provided immense growth for my practice and directly fulfilled the purposes of work-integrated learning. Without the grant, opportunities like this would not have been possible for me.
If I can leave any parting wisdom, frequently check on the scholarships website (especially around January as some close off early for the year) and apply for anything you feel you meet the criteria for.
Importantly, Charles Sturt University recognises that financial hardship is not necessarily experienced by certain groups but is a common stressor, hence they provide other ways to demonstrate your circumstances.
Take advantage of these methods to show your needs, put your best foot forward and follow the application instructions closely.
All the best with your work-integrated learning and ensure you take advantage of opportunities like the NPILF Career Ready Grant to make your journey more rewarding!
Click here to apply or find out more!
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