Head Start to University

Three Year 11 students, Eric Sofianopoulos, Isobel Hymer and Jia Zheng, have won scholarships for the Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholars program for 2014 at Melbourne University, an academic enrichment program that supports high-achievement. This opportunity will provide a smooth transition from their time in Senior School at Wesley to being a Melbourne University student. Jia, from the Glen Waverley campus, along with Isobel and Eric from the St Kilda Road campus, will meet like-minded students from all around the state, receive up-to-date information about the university, develop their leadership skills and enhance their own learning through access to university resources, academics and events – all of which will give them a head start to university life.

The three students were selected for the prestigious Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholarships on their own academic and leadership skills and with the full support of the College. Simon Shepherd, Head of Glen Waverley’s Senior School, says Jia is highly deserving of the award. “Jia is an exemplary student who strives to attain in everything that she does. She is an elite swimmer, an accomplished musician and academically her results are outstanding. In the classroom she is a highly engaged and determined student who makes the most of every opportunity.” Nick Evans, Head of St Kilda Road’s Senior School adds “Both Isobel and Eric gained straight A’s in every Year 10 subject and were awarded an A+ for their VCE subjects as well. This is a remarkable achievement across a diverse range of subjects, ranging from VCE Biology and VCE Legal Studies, Year 10 Media, Film as Text, 3D Art, Mathematics, English, French, Japanese and PE. The award from The University of Melbourne recognising their all-round talents was well deserved indeed.”

The students themselves are delighted with their achievements. Says Jia “Being a part of this new, different and exciting community of students and future leaders, I believe it will provide many opportunities as well as enrich my studies,” whilst Isobel says, “Being awarded the scholarship is a confirmation that hard work pays off and I look forward to fully embracing all aspects of the program.” Eric says, “To be nominated for this scholarship is an honour in itself, let alone being accepted. I still can’t believe I was chosen for a program such as this, and I am really looking forward to the opportunities and facilities that I will have access to.”