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Part-time employer awards scholarship

A local university student has been awarded a $1500 scholarship by his part-time employer.

Nicholas Wilkinson of Woy Woy received the award from McDonald's Woy Woy owner operator Mr John Ursino.

Nicholas is currently studying for a double degree consisting of a Bachelor of Commerce - Actuarial Studies and a Bachelor of Economics at Macquarie University in North Ryde.

"I never realised the extra benefits I could get from working at McDonald's," Nicholas said.

"The experience I have gained at McDonald's has been invaluable, such as learning time management skills and discipline, which has helped me with my school work.

"It has also improved my communication skills and given me greater confidence.

"I intend to continue working at McDonald's throughout university, and will use the funds from the scholarship to help cover my university expenses.

"The double degree that I am currently enrolled in at Macquarie University is, although rewarding, very challenging and time consuming - especially as I travel from the Central Coast to North Ryde to attend tutorials and lectures," said Nicholas.

"This Scholarship will ease the pressure of university and travel costs."

Mr Ursino said he had been very impressed with Nicholas's attitude and work manner.

"Combining study, work and outside commitments can be tough, but over the two and a half years that Nicholas has worked in our restaurant he has continued to excel in all of these areas through his exceptional determination and motivation," Mr Ursino said.

Nicholas is currently a crew trainer at McDonald's Woy Woy. In this capacity he is responsible for on-shift training of new and existing staff.

He is also a member of the restaurant's occupational health and safety committee, which completes store audits fortnightly to ensure that the workplace is a safe one.

Nicholas's achievements at school include being a school prefect in years 11 and 12 and excellent academic results in English, Mathematics and Sciences.

In Year 10, Nicholas undertook accelerated learning in the area of Mathematics.

Through this program, Nicholas sat for his 2 Unit HSC Mathematics Exam at the end of that year and was placed 24th in NSW.

"In all my years as a McDonald's licensee, I have never had a more reliable, dedicated and conscientious crew person than Nicholas," said Mr Ursino.

Nicholas's community achievements include involvement in numerous charities, including the Red Cross Door Knock Appeal.

"Nicholas is an outstanding employee and community citizen, and I am delighted he has been recognised from the many applications received for the Crew Scholarship program and rewarded for his efforts.

"He epitomises all that McDonald's looks for in a crew member."

McDonald's developed the Crew Scholarship program to help employees further their education and pursue the careers of their choice.

Press release, June 27