Miss Taylor (19) is studying towards a diploma in rural business after already completing certificates in agriculture, farm management, and shearing and wool handling at Telford.
She is now in her second year at Telford, having been impressed by what she saw when attending Taster Week while a pupil at Waitaki Girls' High School.
She enjoyed the mix of theory and practical learning and also enjoyed the work experience.
Miss Taylor, a keen horsewoman, will complete the diploma in November then look for a full-time job.
Her long-term goals were to become a head shepherd before working her way up to farm manager and to eventually own a high-country farm. She was determined to achieve her goals, she said.
Miss Taylor is one of two recipients of the Clutha District Council 2012 Telford bursary and will be given $500 at a council meeting next month.
The other bursary recipient is last year's recipient Angela Nicholson (20).
Miss Nicholson, who will receive $1000, is studying towards a diploma in rural business, having completed certificates in agriculture, farm management and equine intermediate and advanced.
Originally from Tauranga, she decided to return to Telford because she enjoyed the atmosphere of the campus, teaching style, and knowledge from local farmers.
She intended using her skills and knowledge to become employed on a high-producing dairy farm in the South Island and her long-term goal was an equity partnership.