Behind every scholarship is a story of hard work, determination, and the pursuit of a dream. For QRI Lifestyle 2025 Scholarship recipient Lily Barra, the award has provided more than financial assistance - it has offered confidence, encouragement, and the freedom to focus on building a future in medical imaging.
When Lily learnt she had been awarded a QRI Lifestyle Scholarship in October 2025, the news came as both a surprise and an honour.
We asked Lily to share her experience of receiving the scholarship, how it has supported her studies, and the impact it has had on her university journey.
"I was incredibly grateful and excited when I found out that I had received a QRI Scholarship Award. Receiving the scholarship was a wonderful surprise and gave me confidence that my hard work and dedication to my studies had been recognised. It was encouraging to know that organisations are willing to invest in and support students pursuing their future careers."
Currently, studying Medical Imaging, Lily has experienced first-hand the additional costs that come with completing a healthcare degree. Beyond textbooks and tuition, clinical placements require travel, accommodation, uniforms, and specialised equipment - expenses that can quickly add up.
Thanks to the QRI Lifestyle Scholarship, some of those financial pressures were eased.
"I chose to use the scholarship funds to help cover several of the costs associated with studying, including university uniforms, accommodation, and travel expenses for clinical placements. As a medical imaging student, placement requirements can involve additional costs beyond normal university expenses, particularly when travelling to and from placement sites and purchasing the required uniforms and equipment. The scholarship helped ease some of these financial pressures and allowed me to better manage the costs that come with completing my degree. Having this support was incredibly valuable and made these expenses more manageable throughout my studies."
With fewer financial worries, Lily has been able to concentrate on what matters most - her education and preparing for a career where she can make a difference.
"The scholarship has made a meaningful difference to my university experience by reducing some of the financial stress that can come with studying. Knowing that I had this support available provided reassurance during busy periods of university and placement. It also reinforced my motivation to continue working hard and make the most of the opportunities available throughout my degree."
For Lily, the scholarship represented much more than financial support. It was recognition of the dedication she had already shown and encouragement to continue striving towards her goals.
"Receiving the scholarship itself was a standout moment for me. Being recognised and supported by the Queensland Rail Institute was incredibly encouraging and gave me greater confidence in my abilities and future career goals. The scholarship has served as a reminder that there are organisations willing to invest in students and support them as they work towards their chosen professions."
Stories like Lily's highlight the lasting impact the QRI Lifestyle Scholarship Awards have on members and their families. By helping students overcome financial barriers, the program allows recipients to focus on learning, developing their skills, and pursuing opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach.
Reflecting on the importance of scholarship programs, Lily shared:
"Programs like the QRI Scholarship Awards are incredibly valuable because they provide both financial assistance and encouragement to students. Many young people face financial pressures while studying, particularly when balancing university, placements, and living expenses. Scholarships like this help relieve some of those pressures and allow students to focus on their education and future careers. They also provide recognition and confidence, which can have a lasting positive impact."
Applications are now open for the QRI Scholarship Awards!
QRI Lifestyle is proud to support members and the future of our members’ children and grandchildren by offering $20,000 in scholarship grants. This is a wonderful opportunity to help them achieve their goals and build a bright future.
4 x $2,000 Major Academic Scholarships
4 x $1,000 Minor Academic Scholarships
4 x $1,000 Sporting Scholarships
2 x $1,000 Arts Scholarships
4 x $500 Encouragement Awards
Encourage your family to apply today and don’t miss out on this fantastic chance. Applications are now open, so get in early! Click Here
Read the blog about the 2025 QRI Scholarship winners
