Vietnamese students Linh Dao and Hoang (Boyd) Nguyen are looking forward to launching their health careers at UQ in 2015, especially with a financial boost for their chosen undergraduate degrees.
Linh received a $3,000 bursary from the School of Pharmacy, while Boyd will have his nursing studies subsidised by a $5,000 bursary from the Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences.
Both competitive bursaries were awarded on merit and presented at the December graduation ceremony for students completing their Foundation Year with International Education Services (IES).
The Foundation Year is a popular pathway for IES students seeking entry and a supportive transition to UQ’s undergraduate programs.
In her bursary application, Linh said it was her dream to become a pharmacist, so she could help prevent and treat diseases in people from her country.
“I am passionate about becoming an ethical, well-educated pharmacist so that I can help my people access correctly and accurately dispensed medicine,” she said.
“I researched various faculties and universities in Australia, and I have confidence that The University of Queensland is the best environment for me to reach my goal.”
Boyd’s application also described his plans to improve health outcomes for people in his own country.
“I have always wanted to be involved in the health industry. I was brought up to be compassionate and benevolent - what can be more giving than being a nurse, devoting one’s life to relieving others’ pain and improving their quality of life?”, said Boyd.
“The University of Queensland's nursing program will equip me with sufficient skills and knowledge to be able to undertake such a noble job.”
The Faculty’s Associate Dean (Academic), Professor Sarah Roberts-Thomson, and the Head of the School of Pharmacy, Professor Nick Shaw presented the awards.
“Linh and Boyd are among the hundreds of bright, enthusiastic new students we welcome to the Faculty each year,” Professor Roberts-Thomson said.
“It’s very satisfying to help highly motivated young people like Linh and Boyd pursue their passions, and to make it possible for them to succeed as learners and as future health practitioners.
Enquiries about support for international students: Donna Guest, International Development Manager, telephone +61 7 3346 9024 or email d.guest@uq.edu.au.
Media enquiries: Kimberley Bennett, Marketing and Communications, telephone +61 7 3346 3037 or email k.bennett@uq.edu.au
