Why the API Power Up Scholarship Changed My University Experience

A student’s perspective

When I started my engineering degree, I knew I wanted a career that mattered; something technical, challenging, and genuinely impactful. What I didn’t know was how to bridge the gap between lectures, textbooks and the real power sector. That’s where the Power Up Scholarship from the Australian Power Institute made all the difference.

From my perspective as a student, the Power Up Scholarship isn’t just financial support. It’s a front-row seat to the power industry — and a confidence boost that changes how you see your future.

1. Feeling supported (financially and professionally)

University is expensive. Between tuition, rent and textbooks, financial pressure is real. The scholarship eased that stress and allowed me to focus on learning rather than juggling extra work hours.

But just as important was the professional support. Being selected as a Power Up Scholar made me feel recognised by industry — not just as a student, but as a future engineer worth investing in.

“The Power Up Scholarship made me feel supported and recognised by the industry. Knowing I’d have access to the professional experience I was eager to gain gave me confidence and direction about my future as an electrical engineer in the power sector.”

2. Real exposure to the power sector — early

Before the scholarship, the power sector felt abstract. I knew it was “important,” but I didn’t really understand the range of roles, projects or pathways available.

Through the Power Up program, I was exposed to:

• Transmission and distribution networks

• Renewable energy integration

• Asset management and system operations

• Major infrastructure projects shaping Australia’s energy transition

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Suddenly, my coursework had context. Concepts from uni made sense because I could see how they were applied in real projects keeping the lights on.

“The Power Up Scholarship gave me real exposure to the power sector early on, allowing me to attend conferences, industry workshops, professional programs, as well as the opportunity to complete an internship. These experiences showed me just how much opportunity there is for development and growth in Australia’s energy sector as well as how my university studies connect to real-world problems.”

3. Access to industry professionals you don’t meet in class

One of the biggest benefits has been direct access to people already working in the industry. Engineers, graduates, managers and leaders openly shared their experiences — what their jobs actually look like, what surprised them, and what they wish they’d known as students.

As a scholar, I could ask questions I’d never feel confident asking cold on LinkedIn:

• What does a graduate role really involve?

• How do you choose between consulting, utilities or system operators?

• What skills actually matter when you start work?

  
  

Those conversations helped me make clearer, more confident career decisions.

“One of the highlights of being a Power Up Scholar is getting the opportunity to connect with engineers at all stages of their careers, learn about the projects they’re working on and ask meaningful questions about their experiences. These conversations helped me understand what I enjoy and shape a clear direction for my future in the power sector.”

4. A network that grows with you

Networking can feel intimidating as a student. The Power Up Scholarship makes it natural.

You meet:

• Other motivated students from across Australia

• Graduates only a few years ahead of you

• Industry representatives actively interested in developing future talent

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These aren’t one-off interactions. The Power Up community feels like a long-term professional network — one that will keep growing as we all move into the industry together.

“Being part of the Power Up community, I’ve connected with students, recent graduates and industry professionals from across Australia who I could one day work alongside. It’s a strong, supportive network that continues to grow with me and open doors as I progress in my career.”

5. Confidence going into interviews and placements

Before joining Power Up, I worried about not being “industry ready.” The program helped bridge that gap.

Through workshops, interviews and industry sessions, I gained:

• A better understanding of recruitment processes

• Confidence talking about my skills and interests

• Insight into what employers are really looking for in students

  
  

When it came time to apply for placements or graduate roles, I felt prepared — not just academically, but professionally.

“Through the Power Up workshops and industry sessions I attended, I became more confident talking about my skills and interests and gained a better understanding of what employers are looking for in students. When it came time to apply for industry placements, I felt prepared not just academically, but professionally.”

6. Seeing the bigger picture of why power engineering matters

One of the most motivating parts of the scholarship has been understanding the social impact of the power sector. Reliable electricity underpins everything — healthcare, education, industry and communities.

As Australia transitions to cleaner energy, power engineers are central to making that change happen safely and reliably. Being part of Power Up helped me see my future career as more than just a job — it’s a contribution to something bigger.

“One of the most motivating parts of the Power Up Scholarship has been understanding the real impact of the power sector. Reliable electricity underpins everyday life, from healthcare and education to communities. Seeing the role power engineers play in Australia’s transition to cleaner energy has made me feel inspired and excited about the meaningful impact my future career could have.” 

Would I recommend the API Power Up Scholarship?

Absolutely.

From a student’s perspective, the Power Up Scholarship offers:

• Financial relief

• Industry exposure you can’t get in lectures

• A supportive national network

• Confidence and clarity about your career path

  
  

It turns university from a standalone academic experience into the first step of a real, supported career in the power sector.

If you’re studying engineering and curious about where your degree could take you — the Power Up Scholarship might just be the opportunity that changes everything. ⚡