Helping Zoe change her future

When Zoe Ellis-Peck heard about the CBE Changing Futures Scholarship, she applied and then forgot about it.

"I never thought I would actually get it," said Zoe. "When I got to know I had received it, I was so shocked I couldn't believe it. I remember ringing my dad to tell him in my disbelief."

Zoe is currently pursuing a double degree in Economics and International Relations. Economics was always a subject of interest for Zoe and she feels it can relate to every aspect of life.

"Some of the skills I've learnt by studying economics are just as important for a career as they are for everyday life. I think that current circumstances have highlighted this."

Zoe is from Orange, a town in the Central West of New South Wales, which is about three hours from Canberra. The scholarship allowed her to come to study at ANU.

"It would have been much more difficult without the award. This definitely provides huge opportunities which I am so grateful for. I am able to take greater advantage of all that ANU has to offer."

She is adjusting to remote study and not having the benefit of face-to-face learning.

"I moved back home and it was a bit of a struggle to get Zoom working, but overall I think I adapted to the situation well."

Zoe is excited about her future opportunities made possible by her ANU study.

"It will hopefully allow me to participate in some really exciting internships. I hope that the combination of economics with international relations will provide me with opportunities for travel in the future."

"I am so thankful to the donors for providing me with these opportunities."