To be considered for the scholarship Mr Hennessy first had to submit a written essay, academic transcripts and an array of relevant documents highlighting leadership roles, community contributions, certificates, and high school achievements.

Mr Hennessy, who is well-known across the Dubbo cricket community, is undertaking tertiary studies at ICMS this year.

Despite the distribution of only 230 scholarships since the start of 2020 from thousands of submissions, selecting Mr Hennessy as a recipient was a no brainer for ICMS scholarships chair Ann Whitelock.

Ms Whitelock said the students who are awarded scholarships are often high-achievers who inspire and impress her with their level of commitment..

"Many are leaders and contributors throughout their school and extra-curricular lives, or have triumphed over situations of real adversity, or are first in their family to attend tertiary education, or this might be the first recognition award ever received," she said.

The college is located in Northern Beaches and scholarships are given to new International school-leavers who will be commencing their full time or equivalent undergraduate studies at ICMS either on-campus or online the following year.

Ms Whitelock said scholarship recipients like Mr Hennessy are offered 'unique' opportunities to develop leadership and presentation skills.

"Smaller classes and the collegial community at ICMS allow for connecting with others and a sense of belonging while cultivating individuality," she said.

"This is one of the unique advantages which will provide students with a network of friendships and professionals in the important years to come."

Ms Whitelock hopes to see more regional and rural students apply in the future.

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