General News
27 September, 2024
Cain secures scholarship
In a field considered to be overwhelmingly male dominated, local agriculture student Charlotte Cain is not just surviving, she’s thriving — with the 20-year-old a recent beneficiary of a significant scholarship.
On the cusp of graduation from Longerenong College, Charlotte has been presented with a $5000 BASF scholarship owing to her passion for the agricultural industry.
A “standout candidate” for the grant, she “clearly articulated issues” impacting the sector and presented suggestions to improve outcomes for producers.
For the past two years, Charlotte has been studying an Advanced Diploma in Agribusiness Management and a Diploma in Applied Agronomy.
With only a month left until she graduates, the Carisbrook resident knows exactly how she’s going to put the scholarship to use.
“I really want to travel overseas, particularly America and Canada, to learn a bit more about the agricultural industry on a wider scale,” Charlotte said.
“It’ll be exciting to get to know the world.
“I’m feeling great about it — I think the world’s in my hands at the moment and I could achieve anything. Hopefully I can expand my knowledge as I travel, and come back with it to the family farm.”
The BASF scholarship follows another grant Charlotte received last year and according to her, the continued backing is a recognition of her potential.
“It does make me really proud of myself,” she said.
“All my hard work is starting to pay off, even at such a young age.
“I’m also prepared to go out in the industry and start working. I’ve got a job lined up for next year as well so it’s definitely [coming together].”
Knowing it can sometimes be difficult as a woman in the industry, Charlotte has some simple advice.
“You just need to put your foot out there and jump at every opportunity you get,” she said.
“When I was applying for this scholarship, I had nothing to lose but everything to win so I think people, especially young girls should make the most of these sort of opportunities.
“The effort you put in is so worth it. Agriculture is in my blood but even in the field, you meet so many incredible people — it’s wonderful.”