Northern Bay College students Hel Thaw Ser and Elizabeth McKernan awarded Harding Miller Scholarships

A Geelong teenager with aspirations of becoming a doctor is one of two local students who have been awarded life-changing scholarships.

Northern Bay College scholarship recipients Hel Thaw Ser and Elizabeth McKernan.

A Geelong student who grew up in a refugee home with aspirations of becoming a doctor is one step closer to achieving her dream after being awarded a life-changing scholarship.

Hel Thaw Ser was one of two year nine students at Northern Bay College Goldsworthy Campus recently awarded Harding Miller Scholarships.

Elizabeth McKernan also received the scholarship, which are provided to female students who show high academic potential but experiencing low socio-economic circumstances.

The four-year scholarships are valued at more than $20,000.

Hel Thaw said she took great pride in the dedication and persistence of her academic pursuits.

“My upbringing in a refugee home has instilled in me a deep desire to care for and look out for others, whether they be family, friends, or others,” she said.

“My career goal is to become a doctor.

“Due to my father inspiring me at a young age, my heart is determined to sustain those who need care at that appointed time and moment.

“Attaining this scholarship, I believe it’s the first step to achieving my lifelong career goal.”

Harding Miller Education’s Caroline Hill said the foundation was proud to provide the assistance.

“The foundation’s vital support for high-potential young girls experiencing socio-economic disadvantage has become even more critical as our country faces increased pressures with higher costs of living,” she said.

“Our scholarship recipients are bright, talented, and engaged, but don’t currently have the resources they need to make the most of their educational opportunities.

“The scholarship provides them with tangible items and practical things that give these young women a hand to complete their high-school education and take advantage of tertiary opportunities.”

Each recipient receives a new laptop, high-speed internet, face-to-face and online tutoring, online homework assistance.

They will also receive prepaid expense cards to cover school essentials such as textbooks and excursions, as well as study skills resources and a personal coach to guide them.

Originally published as Northern Bay College students Hel Thaw Ser and Elizabeth McKernan awarded Harding Miller Scholarships