Year 12 student Matthew Radvin has just been awarded the prestigious Tuckwell Scholarship to study at ANU in Canberra next year. The Tuckwell Scholarship at ANU is considered the most transformational undergraduate scholarship programme in Australia. It offers funding for five years of full-time study, and there are now more than 70 alumni working worldwide.
Matthew is one of just 25 students from over 1000 applicants to receive this scholarship, which is a major boost for him as he prepares to sit his HSC in the coming months. The Tuckwell Scholarship Program aims to give talented students from a range of backgrounds the chance to realise their potential by providing financial support, personal enrichment and development opportunities. Scholars are selected on the basis of intellect, character, leadership and their commitment to Australia.
On hearing about the incredible educational opportunities that the scholarship provides at ANU, Matthew says he was inspired to apply: “The idea of being part of a scholar community with highly accomplished students from all around Australia was a prospect that really excited me, along with the networking opportunities that this programme provides.”
Cranbrook celebrates a well-rounded education, which was a key focus of the scholarship. Matthew believes that his involvement in athletics and cross-country at school helped his application stand out in the scholarship selection process as it displays personal drive and resilience.
“I think it was important that I had a good mix between sport and the creative arts particularly drama productions, as it demonstrated a sense of balance within my Co-Curricular pursuits. In terms of school community involvement, I think my positions as Cross Country Captain and Head of Perkins House showed that I’m committed to leadership and actively supporting other students in trying to achieve their own goals. However, I think it was important to not only demonstrate service to the School, but also give back to the wider community. I had many opportunities to do this at Cranbrook through the service component of Duke of Edinburgh, as well as a Perkins House initiative in collaboration with ‘Project Kindness’, “says Matthew.
Matthew offers this advice to anyone interested in applying for the Tuckwell Scholarship, or any university scholarship: “Find activities that you’re good at and that you really enjoy. By engaging in Co-Curricular and leadership opportunities that you are genuinely passionate about, it also demonstrates that you’d be able to contribute to the cultural life at university. The students who received a Tuckwell Scholarship varied between debaters, artists, musicians, athletes and actors, along with captains of sport and school. All these areas of activity are offered at Cranbrook, making it possible for any student to pursue their own interests and place themselves in contention for a scholarship.”
Commenting on Matthew’s scholarship success, Michele Marquet, Acting Head of School, said: “I am incredibly proud of Matthew. This scholarship award recognises not only his exceptional academic achievements but also his dedication to service and leadership. Matthew embodies the values we uphold at our school, and I have no doubt that he will continue to excel and make a positive impact in the years to come. I warmly congratulate him on this well-deserved accomplishment!”
)
)
)