The Rotary Club of Cochrane has been a long-time youth supporter, helping students to unlock their potential and achieve their goals.

They've recently handed out two $5,000 scholarships to local grade 12 students to help ease the financial burden of post-secondary education.

Long-time Rotarian and New Generation Committee Member, Julian DeCocq says that the aim of the U-Start Bursary is to help eliminate that financial barrier.

He says that the student candidates underwent a long screening and application process.

"It's a very detailed vetting process, " says DeCocq. "The students themselves had to demonstrate financial need and academic achievements and [indicate] where they intend to be over the next number of years and show enrollment. We've arrived at our two award winners and we're very happy with them."

Gaby Eliscupides is a grade 12 student at St.Timothy High School, and she plans on attending U of C in the fall to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce degree with a concentration in entrepreneurship and innovation.

She says that she has felt overwhelmed by the financial aspect of this four-year undertaking, and the scholarship will help to alleviate some of that pressure.

"Looking at the whole thing financially is pretty scary especially during the pandemic," says Eliscupides. "My dad got laid off from his job, and seeing that whole path ahead of me was a little concerning. Applying for the scholarship, I really saw the light at the end of the tunnel."

Sharllette Manabat attends Bow Valley High School and she says that the pandemic has added an extra layer of challenges during her senior year. Still, Manabat believes it's helped to prepare her for life after high school.

"It's been pretty tough, but moving into online learning and transitioning into a new format, I've learned a lot about myself as a student and a learner," says Manabat. "I've definitely been able to adapt, obviously not without some obstacles in the way."

Thanks to the U-Start bursary, Manabat says that some financial strain has been lifted to help her pursue an engineering degree at U of C.

The Rotary Club of Cochrane is also involved with an annual Bursary Program with Cochrane High, Bow Valley High and St. Timothy High School. They will be awarding two students from each school with a $600 bursary later this month.