When alumna Aiesha began thinking about life after high school, she knew she would likely need to relocate in order to pursue her university ambitions. That early planning led her to discover the Hansen Scholarship at the University of Melbourne – a transformative opportunity designed to support students both financially and personally as they begin their university journey.
Valued at around $100,000, the scholarship provides three years of accommodation at Little Hall, a living allowance, mentoring, industry connections and even post-graduate placement opportunities. For Aiesha, the experience has offered far more than financial support, opening doors to leadership opportunities, cultural experiences and a strong sense of community.
In this Q&A, Aiesha reflects on what motivated her to apply, what the application process was like, and how being part of the Hansen cohort has shaped her university experience so far – along with her advice for students who may be considering applying.
What initially motivated you to apply for the Hansen Scholarship at Melbourne Uni?
I knew quite early on that I would likely need to relocate or move out after finishing high school, so I started thinking about how I could make that transition possible. Because of this, I began researching scholarships quite early in high school and planning how I might support myself while studying at university.
When I came across the Hansen Scholarship, it immediately stood out to me. The opportunity was quite unique. The chance to move to a new city, live in a residential community, and have three years of accommodation support while studying at one of Australia’s best educational institutions. It felt like an opportunity that could really set me up for the future.
What was the application process like, and do you have any tips for future applicants?
The application process really encourages applicants to reflect on who they are and how they want to grow as a person. It’s not just about listing achievements, but about showing your dedication to becoming a better person, leader, and member of society, as well as how you contribute to the communities around you.
My biggest advice would be to stay engaged throughout the entire process. Take the time to learn about the scholarship program, the values it stands for, and the people involved in judging and running it. It’s helpful to understand the community you are hoping to join. Engaging with mentors and others involved in the program can also give you valuable insight into what the scholarship represents.
How has the scholarship supported you beyond financial assistance?
Beyond financial support, the scholarship has given me opportunities to grow personally and step outside of my comfort zone. Living in this environment has helped me become more confident as a person, particularly when it comes to public speaking, communicating with others, and sharing ideas.
It has also broadened my interests by encouraging me to try new things and take part in experiences I might not otherwise have had access to. For example, we’ve been able to attend several exhibitions at the NGV as well as cultural events such as the opera and ballet. Experiences like these help expand your perspective beyond just study.
Most importantly, the sense of community is incredibly valuable. Being surrounded by people who support and encourage each other to grow creates an environment where you feel comfortable trying new things.
What has been the most impactful part of the experience so far (mentoring, community, industry exposure, etc.)?
The most impactful part of the experience has been the community and the opportunity to help shape it. Because Little Hall is still relatively new, residents have many opportunities to get involved and contribute to the culture and direction of the community.
Personally, I’ve really valued getting involved in leadership roles, such as through the Little Hall Residents Committee (LHRC) and the Little Hall Arts Society (LHAS). These experiences have allowed me to contribute to the community while also developing my own leadership skills.
How has being part of the Hansen cohort shaped your university experience?
Being part of the Hansen cohort has meant having a network of peers who quickly become like family. Living and studying alongside people you see every day creates strong connections and a supportive environment.
It also exposes you to a wide range of ideas, perspectives, and interests. Being around people with different passions encourages you to try new things yourself, whether that’s joining sports, participating in activities, or exploring interests you may not have considered before.
What would you say to someone who is unsure about applying?
During my own application process, I often found myself thinking that I didn’t have big enough achievements or that I simply wasn’t good enough. Those intrusive thoughts can make the process feel intimidating and can stop you from fully engaging with the opportunities available, especially when interacting with mentors or others involved in the program before receiving a final outcome.
Looking back, I would encourage anyone who feels unsure to apply anyway and to make the most of the experience. Don’t let self-doubt prevent you from engaging with the process or the people involved. Even before you know the outcome, there is a lot you can learn from the experience.
How do you see this opportunity influencing your future goals?
This opportunity has allowed me to connect with a wide range of impressive individuals and learn from their experiences. Being surrounded by people who are motivated and passionate about what they do encourages you to think more ambitiously about your own future.
It has also helped build my confidence in engaging with others, sharing ideas, and taking opportunities that might have previously felt intimidating. Developing that confidence, alongside building strong networks, is an invaluable skill that will be important in any career path.
