22 November 2024
Fife College has announced that applications for the 2025 George Lauder Bursary are now open, giving two lucky students the chance to experience the educational and cultural opportunities of a lifetime in the USA next summer.
This prestigious scholarship, generously funded by the family of George Lauder and the Saint Andrew’s Society of the State of New York, fully covers all expenses for two months including food, travel, accommodation, and course fees. Open to second-year HND students and those with equivalent qualifications plus recent graduates, this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity has already transformed the lives of past winners.
2024 recipients, Camryn Provan and Megan Simpson, both from Dunfermline, have recently returned from their unforgettable adventures. Both students were awarded the scholarship opportunity in January after completing an application and interview process before flying out to New York City and Washington, D.C. in June.
Camryn attended a ‘Graphic Design Intensive’ course at the prestigious Pratt Institute in New York, alongside a ‘Personal Branding Development Course’ with a leading communication and branding company.
Camryn, who studied HND Fashion at the College and is currently in her third year at Heriot-Watt University, where she is studying for a degree in Fashion Branding and Promotion, said:
“Studying in New York City over the summer was truly an unforgettable experience that greatly impacted both my academic and personal growth. The city’s vibrant energy and diverse culture were a continuous source of creative inspiration, both inside and outside of class. Overall, it provided me with memories and knowledge I will forever be grateful for.”
Meanwhile, Megan volunteered at the Sasha Bruce Youthwork Centre, supporting children and young adults, and studied part-time in Childhood Development at the prestigious George Washington University in Washington, D.C.
Megan, who completed a BA Degree in Learning Difficulties and Disabilities with Fife College and Abertay University earlier this year, said:
“I am deeply grateful for the invaluable opportunity to live, study, and volunteer in the United States. Washington, D.C. is an exceptionally beautiful city, home to remarkable, innovative, and inspiring individuals.
“The skills and knowledge I have acquired through my involvement with Sasha Bruce Youthwork and my studies at George Washington University will significantly inform and enhance my efforts to support and assist others in my home community.”
Offered through the Adam Smith Scholarships programme, part of Fife College, the George Lauder Bursary is coordinated with the support of William Garner, the great-great-grandson of George Lauder. He plays a key role in organising and supporting each student’s experience, ensuring their time in the USA is both enriching and memorable.
Lyn Gold, Scholarship and Alumni Lead at Fife College, said:
“This incredible opportunity has truly transformed Camryn and Megan’s lives, and they have embraced it wholeheartedly, shining as outstanding representatives for Fife College.
“We extend our utmost gratitude to William Garner, the Lauder family, and the Saint Andrew’s Society of the State of New York for their unwavering support of this scholarship.
“We are now on the lookout for two more lucky students to follow in Camryn and Megan’s footsteps next summer. Applications are open for all students studying HND level and above, as well as former students who graduated within the last four years.”
For more information on how to apply for the 2025 George Lauder Bursary, visit the Adam Smith Scholarships page or contact scholarships@fife.ac.uk.
You can read about Camryn and Megan’s incredible journeys on their blogs: