Bermudians Enjoying Studies At Arizona State
Five Bermuda students – Catherine Bell, Ben Redburn, Precious Hayward, Jatia Richardson, and Eva Botelli — are pursuing their dreams through the ASU Bermuda Tuition Scholarship, which offers full-tuition opportunities for local students to study with Arizona State University in person or online.
A spokesperson said, “Scholarship opportunities open doors for students to pursue their passions, reach their goals and contribute to Bermuda’s future within a global community.
“In 2021, the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences became a unit of Arizona State University, integrating its research and education programs into the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory and the School of Ocean Futures. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to advancing innovative research and education in Bermuda and beyond.
“As part of this collaboration, ASU established the ASU Bermuda Tuition Scholarship, which grants five full-tuition scholarships each year. Awarded on a competitive basis, these scholarships are open to Bermudian students to study in person or online in any undergraduate program at one of ASU’s campuses.
“Scholarships not only provide financial assistance but also open doors to diverse academic opportunities, global experiences, and professional development opportunities that will help shape the future of Bermudians.
Scholarship recipients share their stories
“Catherine Bell, 45, transferred online this fall into the ocean futures program — one of five schools within the Rob Walton College of Global Futures. The School of Ocean Futures which focuses on the current and future states of the ocean, offering research and learning opportunities through facilities in both the Pacific and the Atlantic, as well as at state-of-the-art labs in the Walton Center for Planetary Health at ASU. Balancing her studies with hands-on coral research at ASU BIOS, Bell says the experience has been both demanding and rewarding.”
“The amount of support is amazing, from ASU advisors and success coaches to the ASU BIOS team who provide space for exams and study,” said Bell. Her passion for marine science was rekindled after a serious accident. “As I was lying in bed recovering, I realized I wanted to return to my love for marine science. Since then, working with corals has been an amazing experience, they inspire me with their resilience.”
Bell also highlighted the flexibility of the program: “The scholarship provides either full four-year tuition coverage for in-person study or two-year coverage for transfer students like me. It’s an incredible opportunity, and I’d be happy to talk to anyone who has questions about applying.”
A spokesperson added, “Ben Redburn, 18 years old, enrolled in the Ira A. Fulton School of Engineering on the Polytechnic campus, is pursuing the aeronautical management technology program with the goal of becoming a pilot.”
“It means a lot as this is a unique opportunity to pursue my dreams, and I feel very fortunate to have received this scholarship,” said Redburn. He added advice for future applicants: “Be yourself throughout the application, especially in the essay. Honesty and being genuine go a long way.”
A spokesperson added, “Precious Hayward, 22 years old, a first-generation university student and one of 11 siblings, is pursuing a bachelor’s in Financial Planning with a minor in technological entrepreneurship, while preparing for actuarial exams.”
“Without funding, I would not be able to pursue an education. Receiving this scholarship has pushed me one step closer to my future as an actuary in Bermuda,” said Hayward, who was raised in the foster system and is a mentor to foster kids as an adult. She encouraged others to persevere: “Tough times do not last — tough people do. Keep your faith and keep pushing.”
A spokesperson added, “Jatia Richardson, 33, a single mother, is studying in the School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences with plans to transition into the actuarial science program.”
“This scholarship is more than just financial support, it’s a pathway toward a better future for both of us. It represents hope, resilience, and the chance to rewrite our story through education,” said Richardson. She urged other Bermudians to seize the opportunity: “Go for it! You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Education can transform your life, and ASU is a place where that transformation is supported and celebrated.”
A spokesperson added, “Eva Botelli, 25, is studying art history through the online program at the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts. “I would encourage other Bermudians to enroll in the online courses with ASU as the flexibility is great and there is a really wide range of courses to choose from,” said Botelli.”
A pathway for Bermuda’s future
“Our affiliation with ASU continues to bring meaningful impact. From financial stability and career pathways for scientific staff, to enhanced facilities and stronger research collaborations,” said Craig Carlson, director of ASU BIOS. “We’ve added support for Bermudian students. It reflects our commitment to building global partnerships and preparing the next generation of problem solvers who will face the challenges of a changing planet. We are thrilled to see the diverse ways this year’s recipients are shaping their futures.”
A spokesperson added, “These scholarship funds are offered for the fall and spring semesters and are designed to expand opportunities for Bermudian students to pursue higher education at a university recognized for access, innovation, sustainability and global impact.”
“As Bermudians, we have so much to offer — so take the leap and believe in yourself,” said Richardson.
A spokesperson added, “For more information about the ASU Bermuda Scholarship or to apply for the spring semester visit: https://tuition.asu.edu/financial-aid/asu-bermuda-scholarships.”
