Georgina Custance

Georgina Custance was the 2015 recipient of the Playford Memorial Trust Honours Scholarship and the AJ and IM Naylon Honours Scholarship. Georgina is currently studying honours in a Bachelor of Science (Enhanced Program for High Achievers).

With a strong passion and excitement about the natural world, Georgina’s degree has provided her with an opportunity to be involved directly in research at Flinders.

On receiving the scholarships, Georgina says, “I felt very special and excited. I couldn’t believe it. The scholarships are academic merit based, so for me it comes as a real confidence booster and reward for putting in the hard work throughout my degree. It also means a lot to me that the university values my efforts. This motivates me to encourage other people to be dedicated to learning and show how rewarding study at Flinders can be.”

The scholarships have allowed Georgina to give up her part time retail position. “I used to study all week and then work on the weekends. The scholarships have taken the pressure off and allowed me to dedicate myself 100% to university. This makes studying much more enjoyable. Also, I am now employed by the university as a tutor and Student Ambassador but these don’t feel like work since I really enjoy them.”

The scholarships also provided Georgina with invaluable opportunities. “Being awarded the scholarship has been great as it opened up networking opportunities at rewards ceremonies and events.”

Georgina would like to thank the donors who provided funding for her scholarships. “Their scholarships mean much more than money. I cannot express how grateful I am for this opportunity. It really gives me the push I need in the right direction to pursue my career.”

Georgina believes that every student should apply for a scholarship. “You have nothing to lose. Even if you don’t think you have any chance, or you think you won’t fit the prerequisites exactly: just go for it and apply anyway. You never know what can happen!”

Once she completes her honours thesis, Georgina says, “I would like to take some time to myself to work out which direction of research and biology I want to take. Eventually, I would like to do my PhD.”

Apply for a Playford Memorial Trust Honours Scholarship or a AJ and IM Naylon Honours Scholarship.