Student Breeshey Webb is the winner of the 2020/21 Ella Olesen Scholarship.
The 19-year-old from Sulby, who is currently studying towards a degree in history and heritage at University College Isle of Man, will follow in a long line of Manx students to be given the chance to spend a year studying at the University of Idaho in the USA.
The scholarship is awarded annually to a female degree student who has been supported through her studies by the Isle of Man Government. It was established in 1971, by Ella Oleson, a former registrar of the university, who died in 1985, and whose mother was born on the Island before emigrating in 1890.
Graham Cregeen MHK, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture, said the quality of applicants was, as always excellent, making it a very difficult decision.
The Minister said:
‘It is a life-changing opportunity and past candidates have gone on to a variety of fantastic opportunities as a result of their experiences.
‘While in America, our scholars have the opportunity to study different topics and promote the Isle of Man to people from all over the world. I am confident Breeshey will be a great ambassador for the Isle of Man and will enjoy her time in Idaho’.
Breeshey said:
‘I am over the moon. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to live and work in another country and experience its life and culture while continuing my education.’
‘I cried a little bit when they told me as I was so shocked but now I am really excited and can’t wait for the summer’.
The former Ramsey Grammar School student is currently studying for a BA honours in history and heritage at UCM and graduates this summer. In her spare time, she works with vulnerable young people, adults and families through local charities and is heavily involved in the performing arts on the Island.
The current Ella Olesen scholar is Grace Hoodless, who is studying in Idaho until May 2020.
