The Deer Park teenager is currently studying Law and Arts at Victoria University’s Footscray Park Campus.
The 18-year-old was born in the Philippines and dreams of specialising in International law in a bid to help others in her homeland.
But it was a dream that may not have been possible without the help of kindly benefactors.
The teenager is one of 70 students who were awarded scholarships this month as part of Victoria University’s new Achievement Scholarship program.
Launched last year, the program offers scholarships to two students from every secondary school in the West.
The students are chosen for their high level of academic achievement and receive $5000 a year for up to four years.
The program also offers vocational scholarships, with vocational students receiving $2000 a year for up to two years.
Julienne said she feared she might not have been able to afford a university education without the scholarship.
“It’s a great financial support, because it helps to pay for four years and that’s four years that I don’t have to worry about,” she said.
“I’m glad for my family that I didn’t have to put the stress on them of having to pay for my education.”
The former Braybrook College student said she was honoured to win the scholarship and hoped to invest it in her future career.
“I’m hoping to do International Law because I come from overseas so it’s something I’m passionate about.
“I want to be able to help my family and friends in the Philippines one day because I think it’s very important to put back into the community.”
Achievement Scholarships are funded by the Victoria University Foundation and the Western Bulldogs Football Club. For more information visit www.vu.edu.au/scholarships.
