18 March 2025 "Applying was one of the best decisions I've made": New scholars loving Lincoln life

With a new year brings a new group of brilliant students to Lincoln University, many of which are in our flagship scholarship programmes.

Our students are now fully into the swing of things. We caught up with a few of them to see how they’re enjoying Lincoln and what they want to achieve here.

Anika Barham is aiming to earn a spot in the Mainland National Netball League team, with the ultimate goal of playing for the Tactix.

She’s one of our new Sport Scholars. For 25 years the programme has nurtured New Zealand’s sporting talents. The scholarship combines study with an extensive training programme, designed to help our athletes compete at the highest level.

“I want to enhance my fitness and strength to improve my performance on the court.

“I also want to develop my nutrition and mental skills to become a more well-rounded athlete.”

The Sport Scholarship allows Anika to pursue her netball goals while studying her Bachelor of Agribusiness and Food Marketing. Anika aims to pursue a career in marketing or sales and one day hopes to start her own business.

Our Future Leader scholarship celebrates its 20^th year this year.  The scholarships are designed to cultivate leadership potential. Alongside funding, our future leaders undertake a 3-year leadership development programme. They play an important role in creating a vibrant campus experience by leading in clubs and supporting staff during university events. They also undertake work in the wider community to support social and environmental sustainability activities.

Libby Crawford has just started her Bachelor of Viticulture and Oenology as a Future Leader. She loved the idea of balancing scientific study with practical outdoor work, and the international opportunities available in the wine industry.

“I absolutely adore Lincoln University. It’s given me and others the opportunity to grow and learn with support in areas that matter.

“You know when you’re at Lincoln that what you’re learning matters for your degree, your career and the land.”

She was excited to develop her understanding of leadership and to build a valuable network of peers and mentors throughout the programme.

“It offers a unique chance to grow personally and professionally, challenge yourself in new ways, and build a network of likeminded people who share similar goals.”

Before enrolling at Lincoln, Libby was ranked the best youth female touch referee in New Zealand. She also completed the Gold Duke of Edinburgh award and won a Prime Ministers’ Vocational Excellence Award, among other achievements.

Akira Lim is one of the students studying our new Bachelor of Commerce – Entrepreneurship and Innovation major. He’s not sure where exactly he wants his career to go, but knows he wants to be able to make that decision by himself.

“I want to have the skills and knowledge to make my own living, make independent decisions, and have control over my future.”

It was also this drive that led him to apply for the Future Leader programme.

“The programme is helping in ways I wouldn't never have thought, such as guidance and immersion in a positive environment where you get to meet people who have aligned beliefs and goals.

“I never expected to get a scholarship, but applying was one of the best decisions I made. You don’t need to have everything figured out or feel like the perfect candidate.”

Our Vice Chancellor’s Scholarships for Excellence are awarded to students who have demonstrated fantastic and consistent academic achievement.

Sam Cranston grew up on a sheep and beef farm on the West Coast, specialising in the Hereford Stud. Now Sam is exploring his passion for genetics with a Bachelor of Agricultural Science.

Sam is excited to build long-lasting industry connections and get started in a successful agriculture career.

“Later in life I would like to return to the family farm and utilise knowledge gained in genetics within the stud.

“I’ve really enjoyed Lincoln University so far, especially the people and the location. It’s out of the city, but close enough to get in easily and near so many recreational areas, like hunting, fishing, swimming and skiing.”

Lincoln University has many scholarships available. You can find more information about our flagship scholarships and search the full range here.