Three St Paul’s students are off to Auckland University next year as recipients of the university’s top achievers scholarship.
Anna Hamilton, Sasha Patil and Alice Cao were awarded this prestigious scholarship, which are given to students who have demonstrated exceptional levels of academic excellence, all-round ability and leadership.
This year, the University of Auckland received over 1,900 applications and only 250 were granted throughout the country. The scholarship is worth up to $20,000 and includes a guaranteed place in a hall of residence.
For Anna, who is enrolled to study a conjoint Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Music (Classical Performance – Voice), Auckland was a top tertiary choice.
“I was pretty stoked to receive the scholarship. I am really excited at being able to explore study areas that intrigue me, plus Auckland is such a beautiful city to live in,” she says.
“I think what helped me stand out was my ability to balance my academic pursuits alongside my cultural endeavours. Throughout my time at St Paul’s, my teachers have consistently gone above and beyond to help in not only my academic work but also in culture and pastoral support.”
Alice, who will be studying biomedical sciences next year, is working towards a career in medicine. Alice has excelled in the sciences during her time at St Paul’s and was selected for the International Bio Olympiad New Zealand team.
“The scholarship is based mainly on academic achievements which I was strong in. This has in part been thanks to the opportunities St Paul’s has provided me by academically extending me during my time here,” says Alice.
“I’m really looking forward to attending Auckland University – a change in structure from high school and having freedom.”
Gaining independence was one of the reasons Sasha, who is enrolled to study a Bachelor of Science, decided to apply for the Auckland scholarship.
“I felt really happy and privileged to be awarded such a prestigious scholarship. Applying for this scholarship stemmed from the financial support it would provide, following becoming independent and moving out of home next year,” she says.
“I hope to follow the biomedical sciences pathway into medicine. I would also like to continue maintaining a balance in my lifestyle and continue my hobbies across the areas of service, culture and sport.”
