At UQ, we often talk about transformation, not just from knowledge but through the broadening of perspective and understanding. Students gain an expanded sense of the possible and, from there, lives are forever changed. By opening doors to enriched learning experiences, scholarships create transformation.
It’s not just about financial aid, it’s the helping hand, the voice that says we believe in you. There’s something deeply motivating about knowing someone is backing you. It becomes fuel, feeding a desire to achieve. Today a degree. Tomorrow, who knows. Scholarship recipients often go on to do remarkable things, not just academically, but in the way they lead, give back, and shape their communities. The habits they build - discipline, drive, generosity - stay with them long after graduation.
Daisy Xu, is an alumna and a donor whose journey has come full circle. “Coming to UQ as an international student for my master’s degree changed my life,” she says. “Years later, I returned to complete my PhD—another transformative chapter. I want every talented young student to have the opportunity to study here without barriers. Giving is my way of saying thank you.”
UQ has well over 350,00 alumni, most in Queensland, many around the world. Science alumni number almost 74,000. In addition to being its largest constituency, alumni are the heart of the university, its face in the world. When you think back on your student years, what do you remember? Is it the lectures and the labs? Or is it the people? The late-night debates, the shared meals, the unexpected friendships?
Scholarships help ensure the rich tapestry of university experience is open to all, creating a learning environment that’s diverse, inclusive, and alive with possibility. Scholarships help students buy textbooks, pay rent, get groceries. They offer the freedom to say yes to leadership roles, research projects, and community initiatives. They give space to fully participate in university life. Scholarships are much more than money. They make room for potential to flourish, regardless of postcode, background, or bank balance.
Take Ian Leung, a Bachelor of Advanced Science student majoring in Marine Biology, Ecology and Conservation Biology. As a first-generation Australian studying interstate, Ian faced tough choices around work, study and what some might call ‘extras’. His scholarship changed things. “This support has alleviated the financial pressure,” Ian shares, “enabling me to progress in my academic journey and be involved in fruitful leadership opportunities at the university.”
Daisy and Ian reflect a shared truth - that enriched learning experiences are indeed transformative. Scholarships don’t fund degrees. They are investments in people, in futures, in communities and a better world.
This Giving Day, support a future leader. From 1-15 October this year, your contributions to the Science Leaders Scholarship will be matched by both UQ* and the Faculty of Science, empowering the next generation of Science alumni to step up in a world that is calling out for them to do just that.
*while matching funds last
