THE next two Syracuse scholars have been announced – and for the first time ever, one is a university graduate.
The Lockerbie Syracuse Trust yesterday revealed that Anna Newbould and Cameron Colville will be heading to Syracuse University for the academic year 2024/25.
And Cameron, 23, who is from Hightae, will be blazing a trail as the first person to go after university and not straight out of school.
The sports science graduate, who attended the University of the West of Scotland at Hamilton, says it’s the right time for him.
He said: “I did not do it in S6 as I did not really think I was the right candidate at that point, but since leaving Lockerbie Academy I have got a lot more confidence from doing sport and the studies I have done.
“I felt it was the right time to apply. It was something I always wanted to do.”
Cameron hopes to study business while there with a view to opening his own strength and conditioning company in the future.
“I am most looking forward to the atmosphere and going over to America and experiencing that different culture,” he said.
“It will be an amazing experience.”
He thanked his mum Mary for her support with the application, and the interview panel.
It will be 17-year-old Anna’s first time in America and she can’t wait, saying: “It’s something I have always thought about doing since I was in S1, it’s a really exciting opportunity, especially as I am really into sport and academics as well, with all the courses they offer.
“It’s something I really wanted to do.”
She’s keen to study chemistry, musical theatre and soccer while Stateside, which will set her up for a degree in sport and exercise science at Robert Gordon University when she returns.
As Lockerbie Academy school captain, Anna has already had some dealings with Syracuse and its students and that’s given her a taste of what to expect.
She added: “I am most looking forward to being in such a big university and being in America as it will be totally different to the UK, just experiencing that.”
Meanwhile, Lockerbie Syracuse Trust chairperson Cllr Carolyne Wilson revealed there had been 14 applications this year and nine subsequent interviews held.
She admitted it was a ‘very difficult decision’ to pick the scholars, but said: “Anna was selected due to her incredible application, presentation and interview, along with demonstrating her many activities outwith the school.
“Cameron was selected following his enthusiasm to secure a place at Syracuse, combined with his great interview and demonstrating his sporting acumen. Alongside this, his attitude to working hard and volunteering.
“The trustees wish them well in their travels and studies and look forward to hearing about their incredible opportunity and adventure ahead.”
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