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Boston: From high school struggles to life-changing adventures
Boston never imagined that he would make it to university, let alone pursue his studies halfway across the world. A University of Sydney scholarship opened up opportunities and led to personal growth.
For Boston growing up, school and family life were tough. For the Yadhaigana man growing up Botany, in Sydney’s southeast, schoolwork didn’t come easy – until he discovered Economics.
“I wasn't an ideal student at all,” Boston says. “Then we had consultations in Year 10 about what subjects we should do. I really wanted to take Economics – just because I thought it sounded cool, although I didn't really know too much about it.”
He worked hard and was acknowledged as a 2020 HSC Distinguished Achiever which recognises students who achieve the highest band possible for one or more subjects.
“University of Sydney staff who visited our school encouraged me to apply to the University through the Gadigal Program which supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to gain entry to the University,” Boston says. I also applied for the Sandra Cadwallader Indigenous Economics Scholarship, as part of my university application.
Boston remembers when he found out he was successful.
“I was at work, and I broke down in happy tears,” he recalls. “I called mum, and we cried together, then my old man, grandparents, brother, and friends. It was one of the happiest days of my life.”
The scholarship allows Boston to focus on his studies towards a Bachelor of Economics degree, taking away the burden of other work commitments, particularly during a rough time in his life. It’s been crucial for his mental health and wellbeing. “It definitely takes loads of pressure off,” he says.
“I also really like the combination of Economics and Philosophy which gives me a holistic approach,” Boston says. “Economics is about exploring how the world works, and Philosophy helps me to be more abstract in my thinking, which is great for employability. I think the labour market now wants people that think differently.”
He has been involved in enrichment activities through the Dalyell Scholars stream which offers opportunities to high-achieving students , including access to accelerated learning options; distinctive Dalyell units of study, such as the exploration of innovative ideas and movements around the world; mentoring and professional skills development.
He’s also had the chance to study overseas.
“I came across the philosopher Søren Kierkegaard who is all about optimising your life and exploring your freedom. He went to the University of Copenhagen, that’s why I applied and was lucky enough to get in – a Dalyell Global Mobility Scholarship helped me get there.
“I also fell in love. I met my partner while studying in Copenhagen,” he smiles. “The impact these scholarships have had on my life is unfathomable. It not only enables me to study what I love but has also provided me with freedom and independence which has fostered my development as a person and citizen of the world.”
Boston hopes to blend his studies to create unexpected solutions to tackle some of the world’s ‘wicked’ problems.
“Waking up each morning to a meaningful, fulfilling vocation is a dream of mine,” he says. “that’s all you can hope for; to leave a mark, contribute, and inspire change.”
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Boston:-"My-life-changing-adventure"
