Matthew Battisson, a Gladstone graduate from Queensland University of Technology, is one of 35 to secure a Young Technologists Scholarship. “I feel extremely honoured to have received my scholarship. I set my sights on the Westpac Scholar’s Young Technologist Scholarship at the beginning of my final year at high school, and my own desire to be a Young tech Scholar fuelled me with motivation to excel in my studies,” Matthew states.
From a young age, Matthew has always been fascinated with all things STEM. “Growing up in Gladstone has given me unique opportunities and has taught me to view the world as full of evolution,” Matthew explains. “Technology has been a constant in my life, and maturing alongside advancements in the digital space has taught me the value of a world connected through intricate systems. I think a large part of inspiration comes from seeing these systems advance and unite people in different ways, and I want to pursue the good change that this brings,” Matthew states.
He believes that the disciplines of STEM are highly powerful when actioned together. “It is through collaboration that I see myself able to make positive change in the future world. Whether it be through widening social perspective, developing new technological solutions or even solving the world’s biggest mysteries, I have learnt that effective communication is the true formula to empowering impactful change,” Matthew imagines a future where he can take his own personal skillset and experiences, and fit them with others to spark a transformation of the world’s problems. “Fully realise your current state,” Matthew believes that coming to terms with your contemporary self and being confident in your own circumstances is the first step in working towards bigger things. “It’s easy to get caught up in the details of your future career and how you might get there, and I believe that many young people feel as if they are expected to have their whole life figured out too prematurely.”