Cornell Lab of Ornithology Bird Event

Five exceptional young naturalists were shortlisted for the Cornell Scholarship this year. Each one of these dedicated applicants really deserved to receive this opportunity and our toughest job is selecting just one person.

But with only one place available, this award was proudly presented to Megan McCleverty who we felt stood out. Her initiatives, volunteering and recordings gave her an exceptional well-rounded CV. We believe that Cornell will make a huge difference to her and help her decide on one of the many future career paths open to her.

Thank you to everyone for applying and sharing your inspirational stories with us. The future looks brighter with so many talented and passionate young naturalists around.

Because of the coronavirus outbreak the Cornell Bird Event will not take place in 2020. Megan will have to wait until June 2021 to go on her trip of a lifetime.

Thank you so much to the Trust for this amazing opportunity. I am thrilled to be the recipient of this scholarship and can not wait for the event to take place!

Megan McCleverty

Scholarship Winner 2020

Megan McCleverty

Congratulations to Megan

What previous winners thought of the event

Amy Hall
Winner 2016

"These people were so friendly and passionate, and I am proud to call them my friends. I still receive emails from them and hope to see them again someday. "

Amy's report »

Max Hellicar
Winner 2017

"The Cornell Young Birders' Event 2017 was absolutely amazing. It was a privilege to learn so much from those at the top of the profession which I hope to go into."

Max's report »

Elliot Montieth
Winner 2018

"What an incredible experience it was... this once in a lifetime trip really has opened my eyes and given me a massive boost of determination as well as clarifying what I want to do with my life."

Elliot's report »