From Griffith to Wagga and now back home supporting her community, scholarship alumni member Tegan is a shining example of what happens when regional talent is supported to thrive. Her journey shows the power of “growing our own” and how a single opportunity can ripple out into long-term community impact.
Tegan grew up in Griffith and always knew she wanted to work in a helping profession. Social justice and community connection shaped her career aspirations early on, eventually guiding her towards a Bachelor of Social Work in Wagga.
The turning point came when her mum spotted the Centacare Foundation Scholarship in the local paper.
Tegan applied. She received it. And it changed everything.
Relief, focus and room to breathe
The final year of a Social Work degree is demanding. Students must complete one thousand hours of unpaid placement, split into two five-hundred-hour blocks. For many, this presents a real financial and emotional strain.
For Tegan, the scholarship brought immediate relief. It gave her:
- Space to focus on learning without the pressure of juggling too many work hours.
- Time for self care, which she says made a noticeable difference to her wellbeing.
- Confidence to finish her placement with energy and enthusiasm.
“It made a monumental difference,” she says. “I am so grateful I applied.”
From student to practitioner
Today, Tegan is a School Wellbeing Practitioner and Families and Communities Practitioner with Centacare South West NSW. Stepping into full-time work straight out of university can feel daunting, but she describes the transition as “an exciting challenge” thanks to the support around her.
“I have never felt alone,” she says. “Even while working remotely, the team has been incredibly supportive.”
She continues to access professional development, ongoing learning and opportunities to build new skills that strengthen her practice.
Advice for future applicants
Tegan encourages Social Work and Psychology students in the Griffith region to apply for the scholarship.
“It had a huge positive impact on my studies and now my professional career. Give it your best shot.”
Tegan’s journey reflects the heart of Centacare’s mission: supporting local students, strengthening regional communities and building a skilled, confident workforce for the future.
If you are studying Social Work or Psychology, consider applying for the Centacare Foundation Scholarship. Your future community might be waiting for you.
If you would like to know more about this story; any of the featured people or would like to submit an idea for an upcoming story, please get in touch.
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