A Lockerbie Academy duo are getting set to jet off to Syracuse University in America next week for the annual scholarship.
Aidan Kevans and Mary-Ann McVey had concerns over the impact of the coronavirus pandemic scuppering their plans but have been given the green light to head for the New York State college on Wednesday.
But when they arrive in America they will need to quarantine for a fortnight before entering the campus.
The pair were selected for the coveted spots which links the two schools following the Pan Am disaster in 1988.
Aidan, 17, said: “It’s something to really look forward to and it’s a massive opportunity.
“There was a bit of worry that we wouldn’t get to go due to the coronavirus but we’ve been given reassurances that we’re good to go. When we arrive in Syracuse we will need to quarantine for two weeks before we can go to the university campus.”
The scholarships, jointly funded by the university and the Lockerbie Syracuse Trust, are part of a positive link between the town and the American city.
It has given more than 60 Lockerbie students an opportunity to sample education at the college, which has nearly 23,000 students, for a full academic year.
The two teens will return in November before flying back out in January until May.
Aidan added: “I’m going to be doing a lot of courses in mental health nursing which I want to do when I come back. It will be so valuable to get a different view and some more insight into that type of nursing.
“Me and Mary-Ann are also going to be doing a scuba diving course. We saw it and thought it was something completely different and we’d do it. We can’t wait to go, it’s such a great opportunity and it should be a great experience.”
Mary-Ann is aiming for a career in medicine or social sciences.
“Having worked in Lockerbie for the past three years in Just Be cafe, I have met visitors who come to the town from all over who are linked to the disaster so I am aware of what an honour this is to represent Lockerbie at Syracuse.”
