After the selection process year 12 student Caleb Hamilton got the good news he would be offered a full scholarship.

That includes an industry placement program designed to give him first-hand experience at working in science-based careers that support primary industries.

“When I was in year 11 there were a couple of year 12 kids who had applied for it. 

“So when it came up I applied to see what I could do, it looked like a fair bit of fun,” Caleb said.

He said he felt very, very privileged to have been offered a scholarship. A two day camp at UNE allowed him to experience university life, and included lectures and presentations on the availability of agricultural courses at the university.

“They were probably the most beneficial thing to me, because I want to study agricultural sciences,” Caleb said.

“I went to the placement camp thinking about studying animal science. 

“While on the camp, we had a tour to the Guyra Tomato Exchange.”

It was after the tour that he decided to change his placement to the tomato farm.

“Now I have decided I want to pursue a career in plant science, soil science and horticulture,” Caleb said.

“It was extremely life-changing for me.”

A casual job awaits him at the tomato exchange while he studies at university.

“By the time I finish uni, I’ll have a lot of experience in the industry, and then we’ll see where it takes me,” Caleb said.

His hope is this opportunity will keep him working in this area and regional NSW.