A small handful of Australia's best and brightest minds have taken their first steps on the path to building a successful future career, by being awarded the Vice-Chancellor's Elite Scholarship to Bond University on the Gold Coast.
Just 11 students nationwide - spanning Queensland, Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia and the ACT - have received the prestigious scholarship to study an undergraduate degree at the country’s first private, non-profit, independent university.
Bond University Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Tim Brailsford, said the recipients would commence their studies in 2018, after being selected on the basis of academic achievement, proven leadership ability and personal character.
"The recipients have been recognised for their exceptional achievements both in academic and extra-curricula excellence," said Professor Brailsford.
"Along with being in the top two percent of Year 12 students in Australia academically, each has been identified by their teachers and peers for their commitment to the community and willingness to help and inspire others.
"Considering they are just 17 and 18 years of age, the students have already achieved extraordinary things and added great value to their school and local communities - and for this I commend them.
"Their proven leadership skills and extensive involvement in extra-curricular activities will be a great asset to the Bond University community in 2018 and beyond."
Professor Brailsford said the Vice-Chancellor’s Elite Scholarship would open many doors for the students.
"These are ambitious and high achieving young people. This year’s crop includes School Captains, Duxes and community leaders. We see our role as continuing to nurture their aspirations during, and after, their time at Bond University," he said.
"As part of the scholarship, they will participate in the Vice-Chancellor's Mentoring Program which connects them with an influential corporate mentor, who will orchestrate industry links and provide hands-on, real-world experience.
“Some of Australia's most high-profile business people have been involved with the program to date, so it is a fantastic opportunity for these students to gain incredible insight into the corporate world, and get a head-start on their career ambitions.
"We look forward to welcoming these inspirational young people to campus in 2018."
2018 Bond University Vice Chancellor’s Elite Scholarship recipients
- Emma Bastian, Fairholme College, Toowoomba
- Jeremy Bonisch, The Rockhampton Grammar School, Rockhampton
- Ryan Buckler, Mentone Grammar School, Victoria
- Maisie Callcott, Walford Anglican School for Girls, South Australia
- Bradley Evans, Toowoomba Grammar School, Toowoomba
- Martin Floro, Trinity Grammar School (Summer Hill), New South Wales
- Alexander Gorshechnikov, Southport State High School, Gold Coast
- Zachary Hevron, Christ Church Grammar School, Western Australia
- Melissa Mitchell, Benowa State High School, Gold Coast
- Niamh Nolan, St Leonard’s College, Victoria
- Lilly Steinberg, Clayfield College, Brisbane