Nineteen Bermudian students on Monday received a boost for the future thanks to the Chamber of Commerce's 19th International Companies Education Awards.

"You may have won but your work is just starting,'' the Chamber's David Ezekiel reminded the winners, some who are already well into their university studies and others who are entering their freshman year.

The scholarships, announced at a Princess Hotel luncheon, will enable the students to study abroad for a period of two years. Over $215,000 was raised by the International Companies Division of the Chamber to fund the scholarships.

Guest speaker Harry Wilken told the luncheon that the ICD's aim is to assist those "who find the high cost of overseas university education understandably tough.'' He also addressed the importance of maintaining a career planning scheme in order to "steer them (students) towards worthwhile study courses'' which in turn will help them choose "realistic career paths.'' There are dangers in attending "educational mills'' and nothing would be more frustrating than returning from university without the necessary qualifications for your desired career, Mr. Wilken warned.

The award winners have enrolled in universities throughout the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

Mr. Wilken reminded the winners "what may appear a long path will prove to be worth it in the end.''