August 11, 2014
Hard work and determination rewarded with competitive national scholarship
Science student receives Youth Off The Streets Scholarship to pursue his dream of geological discovery.
If there’s one word that sums up UOW student Joshua Silkin’s new-found approach to life after the tough lessons of living on the streets, it would be determination.
Joshua, 20, is studying (Geology), and as a recipient he’ll be supported to fulfill his potential.
Yet, it has been a tough path to get where he is now.
Joshua said it took him three years to complete his HSC as he moved through four different high schools in four years. He lived in his car, at a youth refuge and with friends, never staying in one place for more than a couple of months, all the while trying to finish his schooling.
His unsettled personal and family life took a mental, emotional and physical toll on his wellbeing, seemingly putting out of reach his childhood fascination with volcanic rocks and the landscapes of the South Coast.
“I never knew what I needed to do with myself until I was on the street. That’s where I learned about what things are precious and what things are superficial. Comfort is more precious than people realize,” Joshua said.
“I wanted to go to uni to make something of my life. I’m the only person in my family to go to university. It inspires in me a drive to succeed and I’m determined to get there.”
Joshua said the Youth Off the Streets Scholarship was “recognition” that he had worked hard to turn his life around.
National Scholarship Program celebrates the talents and strengths of young people from the Australian community who exhibit extraordinary promise but lack the personal support networks and resources that will allow them to fulfill their potential.
Every year more than 20 young people throughout Australia are awarded scholarships, which include funds to the value of $6,000 each to pursue further education or training for a positive future.
“The scholarship means I have achieved something and people recognise that,” he said. “My experience has taught me that life is not about the money. It’s so important to have a close group of friends you. Nothing is given to you in life, you have to earn it, especially trust. If you’re in a bad way, don’t be too proud to accept help. That’s what I’ve learned and I hope that I can now help others going through what I went through.”
Father Riley’s vision of the National Scholarship Program is to bring together combined resources, encourage corporate social responsibility and promote community engagement with young people who have become disconnected or are at risk of becoming marginalised.
“Ever since I was a kid I would take walks into the hills where I grew up in the Shoalhaven area and looked at volcanic rocks and the geological formations,” Joshua said. “The more I learned the more I loved it and now I can fulfill that passion and at UOW. I can and will achieve my goal and I will become successful, Because I know I can.”