A tragic family loss and financial hardship almost derailed Kristie Loweke's plans to become a teacher. Then, on the same day she decided her only option was to put her studies on hold, she found out she had been awarded a University of the Sunshine Coast scholarship.
"The timing was incredible, and so is the difference it is making," said the mother-of-four from Maryborough who is studying to become a teacher.
"I was so happy that someone chose me out of so many worthy recipients and thought that I have got what it takes and deserve this," she said.
"I have been dealing with the loss of my mother, who was also one of my greatest supporters when it came to making my university dream a reality, and who helped my husband look after our children, who have special needs.
"My husband is also a lower leg amputee and is not working at the moment. At the start of this semester, we were struggling to cope financially and find childcare so I could keep on studying.
"I was absolutely blown to get the email the very day I was ready to withdraw, saying I had been awarded a Thompson Study Support scholarship."
Valued at up to $14,000, the scholarship is awarded to students who have commitments such as work, placement or significant carers responsibilities that impact on study.
