Preparation, planning vital when applying for scholarships

JEANNE Tareasi, an Australian Awards alumna, says preparation and planning is important when applying for the Australia Awards scholarships.
Tareasi, who completed a master’s in professional accounting and one in business administration, at James Cook University in Townsville in 2020, said the Australian Awards scholarship was competitive.
“The PNG Australia Alumni Association also has chapters in different provinces that you can reach out to and I’m sure members would be able to assist with any questions you may have,” she said.
Tareasi said the scholarship was aimed at the development needs of Papua New Guinea.
“You will be supported every step of the way by the Australia Awards team and university international student support team, and you graduate with more than just a degree,” she said.
“You get to experience the culture and way of life in Australia as well, which is very different to PNG.”
After working with an international non-government organisation for eight years, Tareasi said she was looking for a challenge.
Tareasi, from the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, said she wanted to contribute to the development sector in a different manner and decided the best way was to apply for a masters in professional accounting and business administration.
“Australia has top quality universities that have global rankings so knowing that you are attaining a degree of a world standard is great,” she said.
“You are prepared well prior to leaving for studies and before returning, you go through a reintegration process for life back in PNG.”
Tareasi said there were also opportunities for continuous professional development through on-award enrichment activities which greatly enhanced the learning experience.
She manages the Save the Children Bougainville area office.
Applications for intake 2023 Australia Awards Scholarships are now open and will close on April 29.