“It has long been known that children of veterans tend to experience greater financial disadvantage and are less likely to complete post-secondary education than the general population.”
In July, AVCAT Alumnus Dr Anthony Rengel gave a moving speech at the WA Australian Air Force Cadets Reunion.
Dr Rengel highlighted some of the issues faced by the children of veterans. “It has long been known that children of veterans tend to experience greater financial disadvantage and are less likely to complete post-secondary education than the general population.”
He went on to speak of his own time as a medical student.
Dr Rengel
“Following the sudden death of my father Paul, our family were placed in financial difficulty. In addition the demands of my medical degree often left little time for sleep, let alone enough part-time work to fully support myself financially. Indeed, I was strongly considering dropping out of medical school and to work for a year or two before recommencing.”
Describing the impact an AVCAT scholarship had on his life he said, “it took away the strain of living expenses and it allowed me to undertake some unique training placements which have inspired me to pursue my dual career as a rural generalist and aerospace medicine specialist.”
AVCAT CEO Joan Hughes & Dr Anthony Rengel
Dr Rengel highlighted the need for increased sponsorship in Western Australia. “In WA this year, just 4 people received AVCAT scholarships, and 17 people missed out on a scholarship.”
Dr Anthony Rengel was awarded an AVCAT Legacy National Scholarship.
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