The Jacob Beck Jaffurs Scholarship was established to assist interesting and inspiring new zealand Medical Students who intend to better the world through their contributions
What it's about
Medical School is filled with overachievers; people who are intelligent and hard working. Many students excel in academics, sports or other skills. Some have multiple degrees or qualifications; some play music, or sports. We are accustomed as a group to being around people who excel.
And because we are accustomed to it, in many ways we become immune to it. Immersed in our own achievements we often forget how fortunate we are and how much we have to give. Sometimes it is necessary to take a step back and ask ourselves: What is the purpose of our achievements and skills? What value can we add to our communities? And what more could we be doing with our time now? A few students show us just how much more we could be doing and humble us with their quiet contributions to the world. Jacob Beck Jaffurs was one of these students.
In his final trainee intern year of 2011 at the University of Auckland medical school, Jacob died in a diving accident. The JBJ scholarships have been set up to celebrate the life and contributions of a young man who inspired others. The purpose of the scholarships is simple: to assist those who have a lot to give and to promote positive change in our communities, whether near or far, through young people who grasp every opportunity to better themselves and better the world.
Jacob lived with joy and courage, dignity and grace. He was a son, a brother and a friend. He taught us that every moment is beautiful, and that attitude counts for more than circumstance. He was without fear, envy, ego or ill will. He loved living, he loved his friends and he loved helping others. With these scholarships, we intend to honour Jacob's life and legacy by supporting worthy projects and plans of NZ medical students attempting to better the world.
““Impossible is just a big word thrown around by small men who find it easier to live in the world they’ve been given than to explore the power they have to change it. Impossible is not a fact. It’s an opinion. Impossible is not a declaration. It’s a dare. Impossible is potential. Impossible is temporary. Impossible is nothing.” ”
The Challenge
This scholarship is not about grades. It’s not about money or your lack of it. It’s not about your geographical origins or culture. It’s not about being able to tick boxes on a form.
This scholarship is about attitude. It is about those people who see opportunities and grasp them with both hands. It is about those people who want to change the world. Or change themselves. Or better yet, those inspired people who want to do both.
This scholarship will be granted to medical students who are energetic, original and innovative.
It will be granted to support people with projects or educational interests outside of the standard classroom.
If you are up to the challenge, please read the attached scholarship regulations and send in your application.
We look forward to hearing from you.