Matt wins scholarship

A great career is beckoning for a young lad from rural Taranaki thanks to a Shell scholarship.

Matt Simpson was born and raised in Ngaere and attended Stratford High School. He won a Shell scholarship in 2013 and has been studying at Canterbury University towards a geology degree.

Now in his final year of study, Matt says the scholarship has saved him alot of financial heartache.

"The Shell Scholarship is sufficient to cover all course fees and means you don't have to get stressed out about the financial aspects of university. I can focus more on study and making the most of living away from home!" says Matt.

He says his summer work experience at Shell's New Plymouth office sparked a courageous decision.

"The job was a real eye opener, seeing how a big global energy company works but one which also has strong roots in the Taranaki community. I saw the potential of what a career in the industry could offer so made the bold move of cross crediting towards a geology degree."

Matt has a Shell mentor who has provided guidance. "It's a substantial perk, especially in your first year when you are getting use to University life and my mentor is like a brother to me."

Applications are now open for the 2016 Shell scholarships. The aim of the scholarships is to assist two Taranaki school leavers who would benefit from mentoring and financial support to study an energy related degree at university. Each scholarship is worth $22,500 and is paid in three annual instalments of $7,500. Applications close on 30 October 2015 and submissions can be made to www.petroleumskills.co.nz