Among them was Annalise Theakstone, who completed her HSC at Orange High School.

Miss Theakstone will study psychology at Sydney's Macquarie University in Sydney.

“For me it’s not just about the money and I know I have a team of people behind me believing in my abilities.”

Mr McDonald, whose firm Talent Focus sponsored Miss Theakstone’s grant, said it was important to make a financial contribution.

“We feel the Country Education Foundation is a perfect model to connect directly with young people who want, and need, a hand,” he said.

The money was raised in the Orange region and CEF Orange and Districts committee secretary and treasurer Laura Egan said many of the sponsors knew what it was like to leave home to attend university.

“We know many of these grants aren’t enough to change lives in a dramatic way, but we can make an impact by helping ease the burden of a buying a new laptop or paying some accommodation costs,” she said.

“If we can help as many students as possible realise their post school dreams and that their community is behind them, backing their aspirations, we believe that can be life-changing.”

The CEF also launched the 2019 University Survival Guide on Tuesday, which will help university students and their families navigate campus life. 

It is in its fifth year of publication and is a free online resource with a particular focus on country students and advice from previous students.

For the first time, the guide has dedicated a section to international students.

CEF chief executive Wendy Cohen said it was important to share as much information as possible.

"It includes stacks of advice about making the most of [orientation] week – how to live and eat healthily, balance work, study and a social life, safety tips and reassurance for parents worried about sending their kids out into the world," she said. 

"For some [students], it will be the first time they will live away from their families and support networks and they will need some extra help."

For more information about the University Survival Guide, click here.

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