A young group of Island students who are studying overseas have been given a helping hand by Smith’s Parish Council.Scholarships have been awarded to six students who are currently furthering their education in the US, UK and Canada.And former MP Ottiwell Simmons, co-ordinator of the Island’s parish councils, said his wish is to see the recipients complete their studies and return to Bermuda to benefit the community and the Island. “Make Bermuda a place that is comfortable for you and others,” he said.Despite tighter budgets, the council recognises the importance of continuing to assist younger members of the community further their academic ambitions and so has, for a fifth year, granted a number of scholarships.Five scholarships of $1,000 each, and one of $2,000, have been presented.When this year’s young recipients met with the council members they expressed gratitude and thanks for the assistance and spoke of how the funds would assist them as they pursued their education.‘This will cover all my books and help with groceries,” said former Mount Saint Agnes Academy student Monica Teixeira, 19. She is preparing to start her third year studying biology at St Francis Xavier University, in Nova Scotia, Canada, and sees a future in the world of nutrition.Savannah Tribley, 18, is at Roger Williams University, in Rhode Island, where she is studying psychology with a minor in visual arts. The former MSA student said the scholarship “will help a lot to buy books and things.”Former Bermuda College graduate Brent Guntl, 21, is now studying IT and security at the University of South Florida. When he has completed his education in the US he hopes to return to Bermuda, possibly to set up his own business. On receiving his scholarship, he said it would be “a huge help paying for my own transport and food.”Sisters Patricia Chisnall, 19, and Jennifer Chisnall, 18, were both chosen to receive a scholarship from the council this year. They are former MSA students. Patricia is currently studying for a degree in commerce at McMaster University, in Ontario, Canada. Younger sister Jennifer was unable to attend the scholarship presentations in person as she was competing in Brazil with the Bermuda National Women’s Hockey Team. She will shortly be starting a course covering childhood and social institutions at King’s University College, Western Ontario, Canada.Joanne Chisnall, mother of Patricia and Jennifer, said: “As a parent I’m sure this money will be put to good use by both my children.”The sixth recipient, Isha Douglas, 23, was not able to attend the presentation as she has already resumed her studies at the University of Buckingham in England. Her mother Caroldey Douglas, who also serves on the parish council, said the former Berkeley Institute student is pursuing a law degree.Council chairwoman Veronica Chisnall explained that the scholarships have been awarded for the past five years. Initially there was only one scholarship, however she and the other council members felt it was better to share the funds among a group of students, rather than just one, so the benefit would be spread wider.