Meet Claudia Castillo | 2026 Deakin Field Readiness Scholarship Recipient
About Claudia
(Left: Dr. Partin, Right: Claudia)
Claudia is a fourth-year geology student at the University of Saskatchewan, and her path to this point is a story of determination. Since moving to Canada six years ago, she has built her academic career from the ground up — navigating the challenges of studying in a new country while developing genuine expertise in the earth sciences.
That determination has paid off. Claudia has already gained valuable industry field experience alongside her coursework, and she’s continuing to push her skills forward through advanced field courses in her final year. Her faculty recognized her not just for academic performance, but for the work ethic and enthusiasm she brings to every aspect of her geology education.
Geology is a discipline that rewards persistence. The rocks don’t give up their secrets easily, and neither does the career path. Claudia’s resilience and commitment to field-based learning represent exactly the qualities the earth sciences need in the next generation of professionals. We’re honoured to support her journey.
About the Deakin Field Readiness Scholarship
The Deakin Field Readiness Scholarship supports students enrolled in field-based academic programs at Canadian universities. Each recipient receives $1,000 in cash and $500 in professional field equipment from Deakin Industries. Recipients are faculty-nominated based on academic potential, enthusiasm for fieldwork, and financial need.
For geology students in particular, the cost of field equipment can be daunting. A proper field kit — compass, hand lens, rock hammer, waterproof field notebook, rain gear, and boots — adds up quickly. The $500 gear package ensures recipients have professional-quality tools from day one of their field season, and the $1,000 cash award helps offset the broader costs of participating in field programs.
For Universities
We’re expanding the Field Readiness Scholarship to more Canadian universities with field-based programs in geology, forestry, environmental science, and related disciplines. If your school would like to join the program, contact Valerie at info@deakin.com.
Congratulations, Claudia. The earth sciences are better for having you in them.
Learn more about the Deakin Field Readiness Scholarship at deakin.com/pages/scholarships.
Students: sign up for the Deakin 10% educational discount at deakin.com.