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Former junior mayor wins scholarship to pursue career in forensics

David Harrison, Lilijana Nicholls, Mayor Rhys Williams

Murdoch University has once again partnered with the City of Mandurah to provide three budding students from the Mandurah-Peel region with equity scholarships worth $12,000 each to support their studies.

One recipient is the former City of Mandurah Junior Mayor, Lilijana Nicholls, who began her journey with Murdoch University at only 15 years old.

“Having commenced my tertiary studies two years earlier than usual has presented me with many challenges. It has required me to adapt my learning style, learn new routines, and adjust to feeling disconnected from my traditional peer group support.

Being younger, this scholarship allows me to access the same travel and social resources as my University peers,” said Lilijana.

Studying a Bachelor of Medical, Molecular and Forensic Science at Murdoch, majoring in Forensic Biology and Toxicology, and Criminology, Lilijana’s dream job is to work within the Western Australian Police Force as a Forensic Examiner.

 

Not only will this scholarship help me gain the tertiary qualifications needed to achieve my career goals, but I can continue pursuing community engagement activities that can help shape my leadership skills, which I am really excited about.”  Lilijana Nicholls

With an emphasis on giving back, Lilijana is involved in many community groups including the Peel Bright Minds, Youth on Leadership, Mandurah Youth Advisory Group and BioBarcode.

“The City of Mandurah has a forward-thinking, proactive city council, which has provided opportunities for me to participate in numerous groups focused on improving community member's quality of life,” said Lilijana.

 “Being a part of these community groups allows me to connect with a wide range of people in my community and learn from their personal and professional experiences.”

“We are really fortunate to have outstanding young people like Lilijana in our community,” said Mandurah Mayor Rhys Williams.

“Council is proud to be making a contribution to assist her in achieving her career goals. Good on you Lilijana and keep up the good work. I encourage eligible students to apply for the next round of scholarships.”

The remaining two scholarships have been offered to undergraduate students, one studying a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary Teaching) and the other a double degree in Bachelor of Criminology and Bachelor of Arts (Psychology).

Deputy Vice-Chancellor Education and Equity, Professor Kylie Readman said she was thrilled for this year’s recipients, celebrating the pre-existing partnership with the City of Mandurah joining Murdoch in championing access and inclusion in higher education.

 
I strongly believe all members of the university community have the opportunity and responsibility to positively impact on the experience and success of our equity students.Deputy Vice-Chancellor Education and Equity, Professor Kylie Readman
 
“We do this so well at Murdoch. We have a long and proud tradition of welcoming students from under-represented backgrounds and supporting them to succeed.”
 
The next round of City of Mandurah scholarships opens 21 September 2021. 
 
Pictured above is Murdoch Univesity Chief of Staff, David Harrison, City of Mandurah scholarship recipient, Lilijana Nicholls and City of Mandurah Mayor, Rhys Williams (left to right).

 

Interested in applying for a scholarship at Murdoch? Find out if you're eligible for the City of Mandurah Scholarship.

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Former junior mayor wins scholarship to pursue career in forensics

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