Stories from our recipients - St Johns College UQ

Georgina Fleming

Academic Excellence Scholarship recipient

I studied very hard throughout high school to attend a top university, but I knew I would struggle to cover the fees of residing at a highly regarded college like St John’s. There were also additional costs involved with moving from Perth. Receiving this scholarship has meant I haven’t had to spend all my time juggling multiple jobs while studying for a double degree. Moreover, without the stress of working to fund my college experience, I have had more time to dedicate to the John’s community, such as trying out for the rowing, swimming, and dance teams.

The value of the scholarship has been far more than just financial for me, as the lifelong friendships I have already formed are a testament to the true value of my scholarship at St John’s. I cannot thank the donors enough for their generosity and support; the scholarship has truly been life changing.

Being part of St John’s College has transformed my perspective, giving me a sense of belonging and a deep appreciation for the shared experiences and traditions that make this place so special. I couldn’t imagine my life any other way. I feel incredibly fortunate to be a recipient of this scholarship, and I will cherish every moment during my time here.

St John's Foundation scholarship recipient Gerogina Fleming

Sam Crook

Sporting Excellence Scholarship recipient

My journey is a little different to the usual story of why someone comes to college. None of my family had ever been to any College and I never had plans to come here. However, in September 2022, in my first year out of school, my beautiful mum, Therese, lost her battle to pancreatic cancer. With nowhere to reside in Brisbane, I had little options. This was until one of my best mates from school, Ryan Fletcher, told me all about John’s and how much he enjoyed it. With little time before applications were to close, I applied at John’s and was offered a position a week later. Little did I know the impact this place would have on my life, and how much it would have shaped it.

Receiving a scholarship at St John’s College has been an incredible support throughout my time here. It has not only eased the financial burden of paying for college but has also allowed me to immerse myself fully in both academic and extracurricular pursuits. The scholarship has given me the freedom to focus on my studies, participate actively in college events, and build lasting relationships within this vibrant community. I am also fortunate enough to be
the 2025 student club president. Simply put, without the financial assistance, I would not have this amazing opportunity to represent my peers as their president.

To the donors who made my scholarship possible, thank you. Your generosity has truly changed my experience at St John’s College, allowing me to focus on my studies while actively participating in college life.

Emma Piggott

SJC Foundation Residential Scholarship

Living at College was a big commitment financially. My dad wasn’t in a position to contribute to my fees, and although I was working part-time all through school and full-time after graduation, it would have been almost impossible for me to afford it independently. I applied for a handful of scholarships and was so incredibly grateful to receive a Scholarship.

Receiving a scholarship has made a massive difference in my life. I’ve been able to fully immerse myself at college, meeting so many lifelong friends and getting involved in many different experiences. Living onsite at UQ, the tutorial program, and academic support have been beneficial for my studies, especially through my first year of university and changing degrees.

Living at John’s has been the best experience of my life. I have met so many incredible people from all over Australia and the world, making so many beautiful friendships and really broadening my perspective.

St John's Foundation scholarship recipient Emma Piggott

Angus Mohr

Mark Harrison Scholarship recipient

Being a part of the St John’s College community over the past three years has been an incredible privilege. The Mark Harrison Scholarship made it possible for me to live at St John’s and allowed me to fully immerse myself in the academic, cultural and social life of the college. Having arrived at college with only the intentions of staying one year due to financial challenges, this scholarship has allowed me to call this amazing place home for three years. This support has allowed me to take part in a supportive and caring community that has shown me to take on new challenges and push beyond my comfort zone.

Before receiving the scholarship, I was tasked with paying my own college fees. The financial strain made it difficult to balance work, family responsibilities, and academic demands. The scholarship relieved that burden and allowed me to become actively involved in the college community, something that wouldn’t have been possible otherwise.

This experience of St John’s will stay with me as I move forward to postgraduate study, and hope that one day I’ll be able to give back by supporting scholarships for future students. Thank you for providing me with this opportunity.

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