Finding a home away from home

When 19-year-old Bachelor of Science student Lawson McCormack left Gunnedah to begin his studies at the University of New England, he became the first in his family to attend university. The transition could have been daunting; moving away from home, adjusting to university life and managing living expenses, but receiving the $8,500 Oorala Residential College Scholarship helped transform that challenge into opportunity.

For Lawson, the scholarship was more than just about the finances. It provided stability, community and confidence during a pivotal year.

“It was great not having to think about how I was going to afford rent for the first year,” Lawson said. “The scholarship reduced a lot of the stress associated with moving out of home. The college facilities are excellent, and college has literally become my home away from home.”

The Oorala Residential College Scholarship covers the full cost of residential college accommodation for a year for up to seven new and continuing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. In addition to accommodation, recipients receive meal plans, a SportUNE membership and assistance setting up their college rooms, allowing students like Lawson to immerse themselves fully in campus life from day one.

Living on campus quickly expanded Lawson’s world. He formed strong friendships and discovered an environment that motivated him academically.

“It helped me to focus on my studies, and this is reflected in my results,” he said.

Lawson’s experience reflects the purpose behind the scholarship, a collaboration between the Oorala Aboriginal Centre, Residential Services and UNE Life (SportUNE). The initiative supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students as they transition into university life, allowing them more freedom to focus on their academic pursuits.

“Aboriginal students studying on campus, where they can become part of the Oorala community, tend to be the most successful,” said Samantha Fowler, Director of the Oorala Aboriginal Centre. “The scholarship makes that possible.”

For a first-generation university student like Lawson, that opportunity is life-changing. It has helped lay the foundation for his academic success and future career.