Hannah Slater has received a helping hand towards her studies at Lincoln University thanks to Perpetual Guardian.
Hannah, head girl at Stratford High School, plans to study towards diplomas in Agriculture and Farm Management and is one of three students in the region to receive a scholarship from the Alexander and Gladys Shepherd Scholarship Trust.
Hannah was chosen from 18 applicants with plans to study towards a degree or certificate in agriculture. "I was really surprised when I heard my name read out for the award," she says.
Hannah impressed the selection committee, which included representatives from Federated Farmers, in an interview where she explained what her plans were for next year and why.
"I've always been interested in agriculture but particularly since my parents bought our drystock farm," Hannah says. "Working alongside them I discovered that drystock farming is what I want to do."
Jade Terryll, of Perpetual Guardian, says this was the first year the trust had a second round of funding for scholarships. "The first round is usually offered to those who are already undertaking an agriculture course, this round however preference was given to secondary school students."
Hannah is grateful for the scholarship. "I really appreciate the trust supporting me in my future endeavours in agriculture."