Samyam

Bachelor of Engineering (Biomedical) (Honours)

Australia enjoys a glowing reputation in Nepal for the highest quality university studies, which made Kathmandu student Samyam delighted to gain acceptance into honours for the Bachelor of Engineering (Biomedical) degree at Flinders University.

‘It’s something I’ve wanted to do since high school,’ says Samyam. ‘The course is quite challenging, but I believe these studies are the best way for me to work effectively in medicine and to help people.’

However, after arriving early this year to commence his studies, Samyam was presented with immediate financial dilemmas when the global repercussions of COVID-19 began to bite hard. His parents, who both work in the tourism industry, lost their livelihood when Nepal went into lockdown. Paying the fees for Samyam’s studies became problematic.

‘I seriously considered going home,’ says Samyam. ‘I really didn’t want to because that would have been admitting defeat. Then, just when everything seemed at its worst, I received a Matthew Flinders Scholarship.’

Funds from the scholarship have ensured Samyam is making steady rent payments for the house he shares with his cousin – which has relieved some of the pressure that had started affecting his studies.

Samyam says that feeling the warmth of support from the Flinders University community has helped him greatly.

‘Gestures like the scholarship mean so much to students who are a long way from home and their families,’ says Samyam.

‘If it was not for the contributions of so many people, I would not have been able to continue with my studies. Words alone cannot express how grateful I am for receiving this support and kindness.’