A former Otumoetai College student is one of this year's two recipients of the Young Women's Christian Association of Hamilton's Tertiary Education Scholarship.

Hilary Max was awarded the $2500 scholarship after attending the YWCA annual general meeting in Wellington in March, where board members were impressed with her maturity and courage.

Hilary Max is thrilled with her scholarship.

Former YWCA Hamilton board president Rachel Bowley says she is really impressed with Hilary.

'Hilary went to the meeting not having much experience with the association, but her knowledge and determination ensured that important issues pertinent to Hamilton were addressed.”

The 22-year-old is also the co-president of the YWCA Hamilton board.

In her fifth year at the University of Waikato, Hilary says she would like to work for an international charity dealing with human rights.

She is currently a Girl Guides' assistant leader and works part time as a gymnastics coach in Hamilton.

Hamilton YWCA awards tertiary scholarships annually to young women studying in Hamilton to meet its purpose of empowering young women within the wider community.

For more information on YWCA scholarships, programmes and activities go to www.ywcahamilton.org.nz.