Scholarships change one life and impact many
Growing up with a single mum in Swan Hill, Daniel almost didn't make it to university. But a scholarship to study dentistry at La Trobe's Rural Health School meant he could pursue his dreams.
From a young age, Daniel dreamt of becoming a dentist. Despite graduating Dux of his Swan Hill high school with an ATAR of 99.75, financial hardship nearly ended his ambition. His single mother had saved for years, but an unexpected crisis left them unable to afford university. “Mum always encouraged me to pursue dentistry, but I could see the heartbreak in her eyes knowing my dreams were no longer possible,” Daniel recalls.
Everything changed when he received the PSA Insurance Program in Dentistry for Rural Victoria Scholarship. “I was in total shock when I got the phone call,” he says. “Mum and I broke down in tears.”
Daniel trained at La Trobe’s Rural Health School, one of the most advanced dental teaching facilities in regional Australia. Now a qualified dentist, he’s delivering essential care in regional Victoria, where access to dental services is limited. Across regional and remote Australia, there are fewer than one-third the number of dentists per capita compared to major cities (AIHW 2024). During his training, he treated children with severe tooth decay - some who had never owned a toothbrush. “It isn’t fair that where you live determines your access to healthcare,” he says.
Daniel’s scholarship made it all possible. “I hope my story inspires others to see that a simple act of generosity can have a profound and lasting impact,” he reflects.
University for all
Daniel’s story shows what’s possible when potential meets opportunity. We know that a university degree can create generational change for many of our students and their families – especially regional, immigrant and first-in-family learners
This isn’t just about access - it’s about investing in the future nurses, teachers and professionals our regions need to thrive. Your support will help us grow the talent that strengthens regional communities for generations to come.