For an increasing number of Saskatchewan youth, the promise of a post-secondary education seems out of reach. The rising costs of tuition, books and housing present an added financial burden that leave many on the outside looking in.

It is a reality that Maddison Nurse-Sich knew all too well. Growing up in a single-parent household, money was understandably tight for the Raymore, Saskatchewan resident and her family. Despite having strong grades and a solid work ethic, she recognized that she needed a little extra help to make her educational dreams come true.

Thankfully, Maddison learned about SaskTel’s scholarship programs and the positive impact they had on Saskatchewan students who faced similar challenges. In 2017, her career aspirations received a big boost after she received one of seven SaskTel Scholarships awarded annually to deserving students throughout the province.

"I always smile when I think back to that day. I was elated when I found out that I had been awarded a SaskTel Scholarship," she said. "The best part was when I shared the news with my mom. I could feel the weight lifting off her shoulders. We were both thrilled that I was getting a second chance to achieve my career goals."

SaskTel’s scholarship programs allow the company to source and build relationships with high potential students in programs related to its lines of business: information, communication and technology. Several scholarships are awarded to candidates each year at the high school and post-secondary level.

SaskTel also partners with the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technology and Gabriel Dumont Institute - Learning and Development to provide several scholarships to Indigenous students entering or enrolled in post-secondary education in the province.

Lyndsey Pankratz, Project Manager - Human Resources, says Maddison’s story is the perfect example of why SaskTel chooses to invest in our province’s young people.

"There are many promising students, like Maddison, who may not have the financial means to complete post-secondary education. SaskTel’s scholarship programs not only help these students, they serve to motivate future generations," said Pankratz. "This continued investment strengthens SaskTel’s relationship with our province’s youth, while helping meet the needs of our future workforce."

Today, Maddison is close to completing her Business diploma at Saskatchewan Polytechnic - Moose Jaw Campus. From there, the 18-year-old plans to earn a Bachelor of Business Administration at the University of Regina, moving one step closer to realizing her goal of becoming a Human Resources professional. Maddison says she will always appreciate the role that SaskTel has played in her educational journey.

"SaskTel provided me with the opportunity to pursue the education that I have dreamed about ever since I was a little girl. My future has endless possibilities," said Nurse-Sich. "It means a lot knowing there are organizations like SaskTel in our province that are committed to helping students reach their goals."

"SaskTel is focused on being an employer of choice. As part of that commitment, the company places a strong emphasis on the development of young people," said Pankratz. "We’re committed to helping Saskatchewan’s future leaders achieve their personal and professional goals."

Students interested in pursuing their own post-secondary dreams are encouraged to apply for a SaskTel Scholarship today! The deadline for applications is March 31. Learn more here.