Transpower Scholars announced

Transpower Scholars announced

Four new Transpower Applied Science Scholars were announced today, bringing to seven the number of scholars in the University of Otago programme.

The scholarships, generously supported by Transpower, are worth $7,000 a year for three years and require students to maintain an A- average in their work.

Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Gareth Jones said: “The Applied Science programme was specifically designed around the concept of scientific enterprise and what New Zealand needs for the future.

“We are able to combine Otago’s strength across all disciplines, including business, to equip young people for that future. Transpower’s partner ship is very highly valued.”

Transpower’s Chief Executive Dr Ralph Craven said: “The scholarships are important in supporting the emergence of graduates who in coming years will make a significant contribution to New Zealand’s economy and society, whether through existing businesses or through entrepreneurial activity.

“The fact that we had 30 applicants to choose from this year shows the value of the scholarships in encouraging young people to consider Applied Science as a relevant qualification.”

Applied Science links science, technology, innovation and entrepreneurship. There are 11 specialist study areas including: applied geology, computational modelling, design for technology, electronics, energy management, environmental management, molecular biology, process technology, software engineering, spatial information and telecommunications.

The 2005 Transpower Scholarship recipients are:

Estelle Baker (Timaru) Estelle is planning a career in molecular biotechnology and is in her second year at Otago. Currently a straight A student, she is also an excellent sportswomen. She has played representative hockey and was South Island Secondary School Snowboarding Champion in 2002 and 2003. This year she is helping organise the Winter University Games. Her principal at Pleasant Point High School said: “Estelle is an outstanding student – she demonstrates the three traits of a high achiever – ability, hard work and motivation.”

Francesca Short (Warkworth) An outstanding straight A scholar, Francesca selected the Applied Science programme because “the molecular biotechnology degree allows me to study the sciences I am particularly interested in and learn the management skills relevant to the industry.” In her second year at Otago, she is also passionate about music and teaches piano to young people.

Brian Walters (Wellington) Originally from South Africa, Brian is enrolled in computational modelling – and watch out for him in the Selwyn Ballet. He came to Otago in 2004 from Scots College, Wellington. His House Master described him as follows: “Brian’s ability to reach, touch and communicate with students and adults alike made him one of the most outstanding young leaders I have worked with during the past 24 years of my teaching career.”

Ollie Wright (Christchurch) In his third year at Otago, Ollie is studying molecular biotechnology. For the last two years he lived at Selwyn College where the warden described him as an exceptional leader who sets high standards for himself and achieves them. In the summer break of 2004/05 Ollie received a summer scholarship to work in Professor Russell Poulter’s biochemistry lab.

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