Aram is a current Friends of Zainab Tertiary Scholarship recipient. He has shared with us some great responses below in relation to his scholarship and all that it has enabled for him.

Q1. How did the PEF scholarship help you?

Embarking on the path of becoming a medical radiation student is a journey filled with challenges, dedication, and unwavering commitment to serving others. As a second-year student in this demanding field, I was fortunate enough to receive a PEF scholarship that not only provided financial support but also ignited a series of transformative experiences and opportunities. The PEF scholarship helped shape my academic, professional, and personal growth, and allowed me to make a lasting impact on both my education and my future career. The scholarship I received played a pivotal role in easing the financial burden associated with pursuing a medical radiation degree. As a demanding and competitive field, medical education often comes with substantial costs, including tuition fees, textbooks, clinical supplies, and specialized equipment. The scholarship provided a much-needed financial cushion, alleviating stress and allowing me to focus more on my studies and practical training. Moreover, it relieved the pressure of juggling multiple part-time jobs, enabling me to devote more time and energy to my coursework and clinical placements.

Beyond the classroom, this scholarship also facilitated my professional development as a medical radiation student. I was able to join professional associations and organizations, such as the Australian Society of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy (ASMIRT), which provided access to valuable resources, research publications, and networking platforms. The PEF scholarship had a profound impact on my personal growth and community involvement. By alleviating financial burdens, I had more time and mental bandwidth to engage in extracurricular activities and volunteer work. I actively participated in giving a speech about my journey at my previous college, Bankstown Senior College and representing my cohort of this year 2023 at the University of Sydney. The PEF scholarship I received as a second-year medical radiation student has had a profound and transformative impact on my academic progress for the past three years.

Q2. How did your family react when you received the scholarship? What do they feel about the scholarships?

When I received the PEF scholarship, my family was overjoyed and incredibly proud of my achievement. They had witnessed firsthand the hard work, dedication, and sacrifices I had made throughout my academic journey. Their reaction was filled with a mixture of excitement, relief, and gratitude. Their unwavering support and encouragement had been instrumental in my pursuit of a medical radiation degree, and the scholarship validated the collective efforts we had put into my education. Their reaction was marked by heartfelt celebrations, hugs, and words of pride, reinforcing the strong bond we share as a family.

My family holds the scholarship in high regard, recognizing its significance in shaping my academic and professional future. They deeply appreciate the financial support it provides, understanding the immense impact it has on relieving the financial burden associated with pursuing a medical radiation degree. They also understand the broader benefits of the scholarship, such as the enhanced educational opportunities, professional development prospects, and research experiences it affords me. They see the scholarship as a testament to my hard work, potential, and dedication, and view it as a catalyst for opening doors to further success in my chosen field. Their feelings toward the scholarship are filled with gratitude, pride, and a sense of shared accomplishment. They continue to support and encourage me as I maximize the opportunities provided by the scholarship, confident in its ability to shape a bright and fulfilling future.

Q3. What are your dreams and plans for the future?

As a medical radiation student at the University of Sydney, my journey has been both challenging and rewarding. The University of Sydney’s renowned program has equipped me with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to excel in the field of medical radiation. Looking to the future, my dreams and plans revolve around making a meaningful impact in the field of medical radiation. I aspire to specialize in MRI as an advanced imaging modality. By pursuing further education and training, I aim to become an expert in my chosen field and contribute to the development of innovative practices and technologies that improve patient outcomes.

Beyond specialization, I am passionate about research and its potential to advance the field of medical radiation. I intend to engage in research projects that explore new imaging modalities, treatment protocols, or radiation safety measures. By collaborating with other professionals and participating in conferences and publications, I hope to contribute to the scientific knowledge base and drive positive change in the field.

My dreams and plans as a medical radiation student at the University of Sydney encompass a lifelong commitment to providing exceptional patient care, advancing the field through research and innovation, and actively contributing to the betterment of healthcare practices. I am confident that the strong foundation laid by my education and the support of the university will empower me to achieve these aspirations and make a positive difference in the lives of patients and the broader medical community.