B: Mitch Bright, Jordy Rasmussen, Oakley Tarrant, Remme Christian, James Pietromonaco. F: Lauren Ross, Lilly Peake, Jenna Harvey, Julianne Hand and Colin Huddy.
Photo by
Lua Ikenasio
Nine first-time tertiary students are one step closer to their career dreams thanks to the Rochester Community Bank’s scholarship program.
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This year’s recipients gathered at the Rochester branch for a celebratory morning tea to acknowledge the awardees.
Community bank team members Lauren Ross, James Pietromonaco and Julianne Hand with recipient Jenna Harvey.
Photo by
Lua Ikenasio
Community Bank executive officer Lauren Ross said investing in students ultimately strengthened the entire community.
“When our students set off to uni or TAFE every year ... the whole community benefits because the skills that they learn, they bring back to the area, which is a huge reason why we do this scholarship program,” she said.
“This year is our fourth year running the program, and we're really excited to sponsor nine students this year, which brings the total up to 32 students that we've supported so far, which, I think, is pretty incredible.”
Community bank team members Lauren Ross, James Pietromonaco and Julianne Hand with recipient Jordy Rasmussen.
Photo by
Lua Ikenasio
For the first time this year, the recipients include two TAFE students and a mature age student.
The scholarship will help the students pursue studies in a range of disciplines including sciences, occupational therapy and physical therapy.
One scholarship recipient, Lilly Peake, will undertake a Diploma of Nursing through Bendigo TAFE while continuing her work at Rochester and Elmore District Health Service.
Community bank team members Lauren Ross, James Pietromonaco and Julianne Hand with recipient Lilly Peake.
Photo by
Lua Ikenasio
She said she was inspired to pursue a nursing career after working at REDHS where she had become close to the nursing staff.
“Working at REDHS just kind of like opened my eyes ... I think (nursing) will definitely be something that I’d really enjoy doing,” she said.
“(The scholarship) will definitely help me out financially.”
She will complete her studies online and on campus over the next two and a half years, and hopes to continue further study to become a registered nurse.
Community bank team members Lauren Ross, James Pietromonaco and Julianne Hand with recipient Oakley Tarrant.
Photo by
Lua Ikenasio
While some recipients will study remotely, such as Ms Peake, others will relocate to pursue their qualifications.
The scholarships will assist students with expenses such as accommodation, food, travel, resources and fees.
Community bank team members Lauren Ross, James Pietromonaco and Julianne Hand with recipient Remee Christian.
Photo by
Lua Ikenasio
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