A former chef and single mother of five who last year received a bursary towards her dream of becoming a nurse hopes that the University of Sunshine Coast’s Giving Day 2023 will help more students achieve their goals.
Giving Day is UniSC’s annual fundraiser and this year’s event on Tuesday 28 November aims to directly assist ambitious students who are struggling with the rising cost of living.
Now in her second year of a Bachelor of Nursing Science, Rachael Thurlow of Kurwongbah said her bursary had changed her life.
“After two decades dedicated to motherhood, I made the bold decision to embark on a new career path as a registered nurse,” she said.
“It was challenging to juggle household responsibilities, work and university studies but the extra support helped ease the financial stress so I could focus on study.
“My family is so proud that I put the effort in and believed in myself.”
My family is so proud that I put the effort in and believed in myself
Vice Chancellor and President, Professor Helen Bartlett said living costs were affecting students in diverse ways, from academic performance to housing to overall mental wellbeing.
“Many students are doing it tough, particularly those from low socioeconomic backgrounds and students with dependents,” she said.
“They have the ambition and the drive to pursue a university education, but financial hardship may stand in their way.
“Giving Day donations will boost those who need it most, empowering them to finish their degrees and make a positive impact on our regional communities from the Fraser Coast to Moreton Bay.”
A foundation run by former UniSC deputy chancellor and council member Scott Williams will this year match every dollar raised, doubling support up to $77,000.
Mr Williams, a retired business owner with a passion for philanthropy, has been supporting UniSC students since 2017.
To donate, go to https://www.usc.edu.au/community/giving-to-unisc/giving-day
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