Gifted students are new VC's scholars
Two students at the University of Adelaide have this year received the prestigious Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships. Announcing the 2009 Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships Fund Appeal, Vice-Chancellor and President Professor James McWha said the scholarships would continue to give "exceptional students the opportunity to attend the University of Adelaide each year". Entirely funded by generous donations from alumni and the University community, the scholarships support outstanding students who experience financial and/or geographical disadvantage. "All too often, gifted students are presented with financial obstacles to study - from the cost of moving away from home, to everyday living expenses, to the price of academic books, fees and materials," Professor McWha said. "My vision for the University of Adelaide is that it attracts the best and brightest students and helps them realise their dream of attending university, regardless of their financial circumstances. "This is a cause I am passionate about - both as the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Adelaide and as a previous scholarship recipient myself. I know first-hand the difference that a scholarship can make." The scholarships are valued at $5000 per year for the program of study. Recipients are selected on academic merit and financial need, with at least one scholarship each year awarded to a student from a rural or remote area. This year's recipients are: Minh Bui Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Commerce (Corporate Finance) Minh is gaining the full University of Adelaide experience. He has chosen to pursue a career in law due to a desire to uphold justice dating back to his childhood. He has also acquired a special interest in politics and finance.Minh chose to study at Adelaide for a variety of reasons. "Other than it being one of the prestigious Group of Eight Universities, I chose it for its great reputation, fantastic study facilities, experienced and enthusiastic educators and highly recognised law and commerce degrees," he said. "I have enjoyed being able to develop strong networks of friends, attending social events, participating in competitions held by the University and gaining valuable knowledge from the stimulating law and commerce programs."
The Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship has helped Minh to concentrate and devote more time to his studies and extra-curricular activities, like student politics and volunteer work, without the financial pressure of supporting himself.
Jie Gao
Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Design As a young girl growing up in Mount Gambier, Jie always knew that design was something she would pursue. It wasn't until she visited a course information night that she discovered the great benefits of a law degree."I realised that a law degree could show me how to view problems from a different perspective, and find new ways of solving them," she said. Leaving her family home and relocating to Adelaide would have been a real struggle without the financial assistance of the Vice- Chancellor's Scholarship. "Although I chose Adelaide because of the convenience and affordability, living costs are still quite high for a student." Jie is enjoying her experience at the University of Adelaide and likes the way university "allows you to discover yourself". Jie's positive approach is a testament to some wise words from her father who told her that "your education is in your hands, it doesn't matter if you attend the most prestigious school, it's about how you apply yourself and having the right attitude". Story by Connie Dutton
To find out more about the 2009 Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships Appeal, or to make a donation, please contact Development and Alumni on +618 8303 5800 or visit: www.alumni.adelaide.edu.au/vcs_appeal
|
