Two students from the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment are among five Deakin students to have been awarded the Australian Government’s prestigious New Colombo Plan Scholarships.
This scholarship, which is now in its fifth year, supports scholars from around Australia to study, live, learn a language, and gain valuable work experience overseas in 2019.
Bachelor of Zoology and Animal Science student Beth Kynaston along with Bachelor of Design (Architecture)/Bachelor of Construction Management (Honours) student Chelsea Clarke are among the 125 Australian recipients this year.
Chelsea and Beth (2nd & 3rd from left) pictured with fellow Deakin awardees Shannan Welsh (left), Chelsie Priestley (2nd from right) and Kyle Meyer (right).
Beth Kynaston receiving her award at an event in Canberra on November 26, 2018
Ms Kynaston will undertake one trimester of study at UNIMAS Sarawak, Malaysia, studying environmental, agricultural and forestry- focused units. Ms Kynsaton said the New Colombo Plan provides her with a unique opportunity to broaden her zoology degree and expand personal and professional connections in an extremely exciting location.
'I’m looking forward to immersing myself in another culture, and gaining a meaningful insight into some of the environmental issues that are currently being faced,' Ms Kynaston said.
Chelsea Clarke pictured with the Hon Julie Bishop at the NCP award ceremony.
Ms Clarke will undertake one trimester of study at the National University of Singapore focusing on architectural subjects such as art history and studios. Ms Clarke is hoping to gain new perspectives.
'The reason I chose to do so is because Singapore is known to be advanced in their architectural design and technologies having a large focus on community architecture and environmental sustainability. Outside of study, I plan to intern in the field of construction management, engineering and architecture,' Ms Clarke said.
'I hope to gain broad perspectives on the construction industry as a whole, especially in terms of learning the cultural sensitivities in the market and how to effectively communicate with those who may have different perspectives due to their location in the world or how they have been brought up. I also hope to gain stronger industry connections throughout the Indo-Pacific region that may allow me to work overseas in the future.'
Receiving the award has been an exciting experience for both students. Ms Kynaston said that receiving the offer was quite surreal as applying had been a long, challenging and competitive process. 'I was very excited that I made it to the end,' Ms Kynaston said.
Ms Clarke said she felt extremely grateful when she received the NCP Scholarship.
'I am now excited for the possibilities that this opportunity holds and can’t wait for the experience.'
The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Honourable Marise Payne and the Minister for Education, the Honourable Dan Tehan MP presented the scholarships to the 125 recipients in a ceremony event late last month. They stated in a joint media release that 'the New Colombo Plan is helping Australian undergraduates develop a deep understanding of the Indo-Pacific and equipping them with the cross-cultural skills needed to succeed in a region that is crucial to Australia's prosperity and security.'
The Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment offers its congratulations to Chelsea and Beth for the outstanding achievement along with their fellow Deakin recipients Chelsie Priestley, Kyle Meyer and Shannan Welsh.