Congratulations to Tessa Dudley who won a 'Hands-On at Otago' scholarship!

Otago University's Business School offers 'Hands-On at Otago' scholarships to students who are looking to pursue further study in business. Each year there are four scholarships available and they cover the registration cost ($675) to Hands-On at Otago, a week-long programme designed to give students practical experience in research and university life.

As a Year 11 student last year, Tessa Dudley heard about the scholarship and "thought it sounded really cool." She talked to Matua Nigel Lineham about it who encouraged to apply and give it a go. 

"Ever since my second year here at Nayland College, when we started talking about university, Otago really stood out to me because of the programs they offer for students," Tessa said.

"I spent so long writing applications and filling out forms, applying for the Business scholarship for Māori," she continued. "I knew that the chance of me receiving it would be extremely low due to my age, so when I received the email saying I had been accepted for the scholarship I was incredibly happy and surprised."

Unfortunately due to Covid, the programme shifted online however Tessa still really enjoyed all of the many quizzes, zoom calls and kahoots throughout the week. 

"We also got a really cool in depth tour of the university campus itself," she said. "Considering the circumstances, it was such an amazing experience of learning and meeting new people."

When asked what being granted the scholarship meant to her, Tessa replied, "It meant a lot to me because it made me realise that even though I am young, I can reach my full potential as soon as I put my mind to it."

Going forward Tessa plans to continue her business studies at Nayland College. She's open to seeing where it takes her, whether it is to Otago University or another University.

To anyone else interested in applying she said, "Go for it! Don’t think that because you’re in Year 11 you won’t get it because that’s what I thought and I did get it. It’s an awesome opportunity and hopefully if you receive it, you’ll actually get to go down to the university! I, myself will definitely be reapplying for next year and recommend anyone else who is interested in business studies, and studying at university, to apply also."

Hands-On at Otago is open to students with a strong interest in learning, who are motivated to succeed, and with the potential to achieve well. The aim of the scholarships is to inspire and motivate young people who have a passion for learning and wish to develop their knowledge and skills alongside many other students who share their interests. There are four scholarships available for students who wish to do business projects at Hands-On at Otago. These scholarships are open to all Year 12 and 13 students, whether they have experience in business subjects at secondary school or have had exposure to business-related extracurricular activities. 

For more information visit: https://www.otago.ac.nz/hands-on-at-otago/application/