Bursary opens door to living and studying in USA for two Fife students
A Glenrothes student has won a bursary which will allow him to live and study in the USA this summer.
Cain Paterson was one of two recipients from Fife College of the 2026 George Lauder Bursary - Freya Buckridge from Dunfermline was also honoured.
The annual bursary, supported by the family of George Lauder in partnership with the Saint Andrew’s Society of the State of New York, covers travel, accommodation and living costs, enabling college students to gain invaluable international academic and cultural experience.
Freya and Cain were formally presented with the award at a celebratory lunch held at the college’s new Dunfermline City Campus, attended by College staff, former bursary recipients and guests. The event was also attended by William Garner, great-great-grandson of George Lauder.
Freya Buckridge (22) is currently studying HND 3D Interior Design at Fife College. An A-grade student with a strong passion for creative design, she also works part-time designing kitchens and bathrooms for a local company. Freya plans to study in New York City, with ambitions to explore set design or undertake an interior design intensive at the Pratt Institute.
Cain, 21,is a former Fife College student who completed an HND in Architectural Technology and is now studying BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology at Edinburgh Napier University.
After initially pursuing plumbing and electrical studies, he discovered his passion for architecture through the College’s Built Environment programme. He hopes to study urban and city architecture in New York City, potentially through a summer architecture intensive at the Pratt Institute or Columbia University.
Cailen said: “The bursary means a great deal to me personally, particularly as someone whose route into university was not straightforward. Support and encouragement at Fife College played a key role in my progression, and this opportunity feels like a continuation of that support at an international level.
“The experience will benefit me academically, professionally and personally. Studying in the United States, particularly in the New York area, will allow me to broaden my understanding of architecture and construction within a different cultural and urban context.
“I am confident that the knowledge, confidence and perspective gained through this opportunity will positively influence my remaining studies and future career, while also allowing me to represent Fife College and the George Lauder legacy in a positive and professional way.”
Lyn Gold, scholarship and alumni engagement lead at Fife College, said: “Freya and Cain are fantastic ambassadors for Fife College and will benefit immensely from this unique study and cultural experience.”