Morayfeld State High School graduate Leah Griffin has received a $12,000 Vice-Chancellor’s Merit Scholarship from the University of the Sunshine Coast.

Leah, 18, of Burpengary gained an OP3 last year and has enrolled in a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at USC to pursue a career in helping children with a disability.

“I was completely overwhelmed to find out the University was awarding me this scholarship,” she said. “It will allow me to really concentrate on my studies.

“I’ve always had an interest in the health field and my mum is a nurse so I know how rewarding healthcare can be as a career path.

“Occupational Therapy appealed to me because it’s something that can have a direct impact on the quality of people’s lives.

“Our first placement will be within special schools, so it will help me get some experience in the area I’m interested in straight away.”

Leah said signing up to study at USC had been an easy decision for her, with the Sippy Downs campus an easy drive from her family home at Burpengary.

“I feel pretty comfortable at uni already. Everyone has been so friendly, there’s a good atmosphere and the OT staff are great,” she said.

“It’s different from school but I think I’m settling in well.”

As well as achieving academically in high school, Leah competed at school, club and representative level for touch football and middle-distance running.

— Gen Kennedy