Dalena

Emili: Without my scholarship, I would not have received the level of support that the Daramalan staff and pastoral care team provided me.

Emili T. who is now a Registered Nurse and Paramedic attended Daramalan College between 2013-2018. A scholarship allowed her to finish her education at Daramalan rather than moving away and transitioning to a new school. 

Did you face any challenges or obstacles while pursuing your education, and if so, how did the scholarship support you through them?  

The scholarship allowed me to stay at Daramalan College for Years 11 and 12. Without this I would have attended a public college in these years due to financial strain. 

I suffered with generalised anxiety disorder during Years 11 and 12 and required extra pastoral support to get through my units.  The pastoral support and community that Daramalan provided me with, allowed me to complete my studies not only at all but with an ATAR that led me to study a Bachelor of Nursing and Paramedicine once I graduated Year 12.  

Looking back, how do you think receiving the scholarship has shaped your personal and professional development?  

Without my scholarship, I would not have received the level of support that the Daramalan staff and pastoral care team provided me. I often wonder where I would be today without it. In 2022, I graduated from university with a Bachelor of Nursing and a Bachelor of Paramedicine. I worked in the emergency department for 18 months, and now I am enjoying my role as a Registered Nurse in General Practice. I am also proud to share that in 2024, my partner and I purchased our first home.  

I am extremely grateful for the opportunity provided to me by Daramalan College and the Wilson family through their generous funding of my scholarship. The story of this scholarship is truly inspiring! Ms Wilson was an exceptionally talented individual who served as a Principal’s Assistant at Daramalan for many years. Unfortunately, due to financial difficulties, she was unable to attend university and further her career. After her passing, her family chose to support the Daramalan Scholarship Fund in order to assist young people who find themselves in similar situations. For that, I am forever thankful. 

“Receiving such an opportunity positively impacted me, shaping my view of the world and the generosity that can be shared. ”

Have you stayed connected with the Daramalan College after graduation? 

During my university studies I was employed at Daramalan College as a casual staff member working in First Aid and occasionally at Reception.  Since graduation from Daramalan I have also attended various social events including hospitality dinners and trivia nights. This connection with the school has been really special, I feel very much a part of the wonderful community that Daramalan sustains.   

Why do you think it is important to continue the Scholarship Fund program? 

Many students, like me, will face the challenge of changing schools for Years 11 and 12 due to financial strain amid the current cost of living crisis. Daramalan offers support and opportunities that not every school can provide, making it a fortunate choice for its students.  

To those who have received a scholarship, I advise you to make the most of it. Take advantage of Daramalan’s resources, embrace the opportunities given, and remember to express gratitude. One day, consider paying it forward, as such opportunities help make the world a better place.