Elizabeth Van den Broek (19) is in her second year of study towards a Bachelor of Engineering degree at the University of Waikato.
“As a woman aspiring to excel in engineering, I am passionate about breaking down gender barriers and contributing to a field that thrives on innovation and diversity.”
‘As a woman aspiring to excel in engineering, I am passionate about breaking down gender barriers and contributing to a field that thrives on innovation and diversity,’ she says. That passion was ignited by visits to her father’s and grandfather’s workshops when she was very young. The former Matamata College student was recognised by her principal as an all-rounder with talent in every curriculum area. In Year 13, Elizabeth faced some major family challenges. Her father died, leaving her mother – who herself has significant health issues – to raise Elizabeth and her three younger siblings alone. Elizabeth is the first person in her family to attend university.
How did you first find out about Keystone?
Through the internet. At the time, I honestly felt like applying might be a bit of a stretch, and that I wasn’t exactly what they were looking for. But I applied anyway, because you can’t succeed if you don’t even try. I’m glad I did.
What was the most challenging aspect of the interview process?
Leading into the interview process, I was dealing with a lot of grief, due to my father’s death. I wasn’t operating at 100 percent. I was really worried I would let down an opportunity that was so close. Despite that, I found that the interview was more open than expected and if anything my experience with grief helped me stay grounded and genuine.
What have you learned about Keystone that you didn’t know before being awarded a Scholarship?
Before receiving the scholarship, I didn’t fully realise how well connected Keystone was in the construction industry. It has introduced me to many professionals and provided networking opportunities through events.
What difference has the scholarship made to your studies?
The Keystone scholarship has been much more than just financial support. It gave me early connections before starting university, at a time when I didn’t know anyone. Meeting people like Maria Lara Parra (also a second year Waikato engineering Keystone student who is now my closest friend) through Keystone made the transition into university much smoother. It helped me feel more confident stepping into a new environment.
What personal talent do you have that Keystone may not know about?
I can easily read and write upside down – a bit silly I know. I learnt how to when I was tutoring. Recently I realised that it’s apparently much more of a jaw-dropper than I realised. (I often do it casually when discussing assignments – to the shock of others.)
Have you worked with, or are you currently working with, a sponsor company?
Not at this stage, but I am open to that opportunity
What place does AI have in your future plans?
AI is evolving at such a rapid pace that it will undoubtedly impact everyone’s future, both positively and negatively. It will also significantly influence the construction industry, so ignoring it isn’t the right response. In the near future, I plan to use AI as a tool to support my learning – particularly for checking my work when practicing past exams where solutions aren’t provided. I think it’s important to develop a strong understanding of how to use AI effectively and responsibly – rather than rely on it.
Final thoughts:
Keystone has given me the freedom to be able to pursue my passions. More than that, it hasn’t just supported me – it’s essentially supported my whole family, which has made a real difference.
This story is part of the My Story Could Be Your Story series. You can read more stories here or watch the interviews on our Keystone Trust YouTube channel.
