Two students from RMIT University have been announced as the winners of the inaugural Dylan Alcott Foundation scholarship.
Amy Roland and Jamie Pozdeeva each received a scholarship, valued at $10,000, including up to $5,000 for a study/living allowance and up to $5,000 towards course fees each year, co-funded by the Foundation and RMIT.
The scholarship supports university students across Australia who live with disability.
The announcement of the recipients coincided International Day of People with Disability on December 3.
Dismantling barriers to study
Ms Roland, who lives with a hearing impairment, relocated to Melbourne to study at RMIT after discovering a passion for medical science while working in a pathology lab in her hometown of Byron Bay. She said the scholarship will support her aspiration to be a medical scientist.
“Without the scholarship, I would be struggling to make ends meet and possibly unable to complete my studies. It will help cover some expenses so I can focus more on my studies. I’m extremely grateful to receive the scholarship. I eventually want to be a medical scientist in clinical biochemistry, to support the wellbeing of my community,” she explained.
“I don’t really see my disability as a barrier, it’s heightened my other senses, which greatly benefits me in my scientific pursuits, as attention to detail is crucial.”
Dylan Alcott AO, co-founder of the Dylan Alcott Foundation, said the scholarship aims to create equal educational opportunities so that people with disability can gain the tools to thrive in life and build their own pathways.
“The university experience offers so much more than just study and qualifications—it’s about being part of a community, meeting new people, sharing ideas, and testing your thoughts in a broader context,” he said.
“We’re pumped to be partnering with RMIT, united in our commitment to inclusivity, access and empowerment, ensuring that young people with disability have the support and opportunities to succeed and fully engage in university life.”