Alice Springs local and young dad Max Fleming recognised for his hard work with CDU scholarship

A young Alice Springs dad says he’s made his uni experience a touch easier while he’s on the home run to obtaining his masters – and he’s sharing how he’s done it.

Alice Springs dad and student Max Fleming with his son by a lake. Max Fleming has recently received the Charles Darwin University regional and remote scholarship. Picture: Supplied

A young Alice Springs dad – who is juggling a full time study load with looking after a six-month-old – says obtaining his degree has become a touch easier thanks to a $5k one-off stipend.

With 18 months until he graduates from Charles Darwin University with a masters in occupational therapy, Max Fleming, 27, said receiving the regional and remote scholarship would allow him to complete 1000 hours of unpaid placement “without excessive financial burden on my family”.

Alice Springs dad and student Max Fleming with his son. Picture: Supplied

Mr Fleming, born-and-bred in Alice Springs, has already obtained his bachelor’s in health science and is working within social services.

“I plan to continue working until I graduate and then I will work as occupational therapist in Alice Springs and remote Northern Territory,” he said.

“By getting a scholarship it helps me just to be able to study and focus on my studies, as well as have time for my family and work.

“Things are expensive these days … but now I’m not having to struggle … I don’t feel stressed about missing a week of work.”

CDU associate vice-chancellor Central Australia and Barkly Regions Jodie Summers said Mr Fleming was “one of many students who are poised to have a strong impact on Alice Springs”.

Central Australia and Barkly AVC Scholarship recipient Max Fleming with Charles Darwin University associate vice-chancellor Central Australia and Barkly Regions Jodie Summers. Picture: Supplied

“Awards like these offer important recognition for our students while also supporting them in their studies,” she said.

“This scholarship is funded by the university’s staff giving program, CDYou, and is awarded annually to students in the Central Australian and Barkly regions who demonstrate community mindedness, commitment to our region, and whose studies are positioned to strengthen their local communities.

“I am incredibly proud to award this scholarship to Max.”

Mr Fleming said anyone thinking of applying a scholarship should do so, as “people tend to recognise and appreciate the work and effort you’re putting in” if you throw your hat in the ring.

“It’s always worth writing an application and telling your story,” Mr Fleming said.

“If you don’t apply for scholarships, you can’t get them.”

Originally published as Alice Springs local and young dad Max Fleming recognised for his hard work with CDU scholarship