Deakin University, Victoria

The George Alexander Foundation Access and Equity Scholarships

$35,000 (part of a commitment of $375,000 over eight years) www.deakin.edu.au

The scholarship scheme at Deakin aims to assist students who show commitment to overcoming financial barriers to realise their education goals and demonstrate strong academic ability.

“GAF recognises that students come from all socio-economic backgrounds and enables us to make the most of what the education system has to

Student Profile

Nick James Walters, GAF Scholar 2008

Second-year student, Bachelor of Architecture/ Bachelor of Construction Management (five-year degree course)

A passion for design and a love of learning add up to a promising future for Nick Walters, a young man whose life challenges have given him the drive to succeed.

What challenges did the transition to tertiary education present for you?

Fortunately, my secondary school’s approach to learning meant I had a relatively smooth transition to the independent study needed at university. The workload however, is significantly greater. Coming from a low income family, I have often worked part-time to help my family and fund my education. This has greatly impacted the time available to me to study, so productive study time is an utmost priority. Attaining higher education, particularly in a course requiring construction of costly model and presentation production, is an added financial strain.

Other than financial help, has the scholarship brought other benefits? Being just the second member of my extended family to continue to higher education, I feel a pressure to succeed and make my family proud. What The George Alexander Foundation has given me, is a basis to grow into a successful professional and a means to ensure that my future is one of financial comfort.

Recipient Course

Kayla Southern Bachelor of Criminology/Bachelor of Laws

GAF recognises that students come from all socio-economic backgrounds and enables us to make the most of what the education system has to offer. I feel extremely privileged to be a GAF scholar and hope to one day be able to help other students in my situation, the same way in which The George Alexander Foundation has helped me and my family. Why did you choose the course you are studying?

As an avid designer, I have always found enjoyment in drawing and creating. Having always been encouraged to strive for academic success and rise to the challenges that education provided, it seemed fitting for me to pursue a career that would engage me academically and creatively. By Year 10, I realised that the built environment would allow me to achieve academically and provide creative and practical challenges to engage my problem-solving skills. As an active leader and avid contributor to the community, architecture is a way to personal success and to allow me to get involved with the community.