The Tuckwell Scholarship at The Australian National University 2014 Edition The annual magazine for Tuckwell Scholars THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
Contents
3 Reflection on our first year
4 Message from the Head of Scholars House
5 The Tuckwell Bell and the Bell Ringer
7 Student stories
35 Timeline
36 Applying for a Tuckwell Scholarship
1
THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
Reflections on our first year GRAHAM AND LOUISE TUCKWELL
We all knew we were taking applications and interviews, which The commitment of the senior on an ambitious project in creating a is crucial to the selection process management of ANU, led by leading scholarship program from a and integrity of the program. Their Professor Marnie Hughes- standing start with no blueprint. This work is voluntary, yet the time Warrington and Dr Colin Taylor, has was a genuine start-up, with all the commitment is large. been outstanding. At our first usual excitement and chaos that We have been thrilled by the meeting with the ANU Chancellor one associates with a new venture. number of ANU staff who have and Vice-Chancellor it was clear To add to the complexity, volunteered to help in many we all shared a vision for what this the two partners were polar aspects of the program, program could do, and their opposites—an entrepreneur and demonstrating their belief in what support has enabled our complete a national university—which made we are trying to achieve. engagement with the University. for some very interesting Thousands of hours of work have With our own children (just about) conversations early on. been done by more than 100 staff, all away at university, we will We now know what a Tuckwell contributing in all manner of things continue to devote a lot of our time Scholar looks like and they look such as reading and scoring of to this program. We take a great terrific. The quality and diversity of multiple applications, designing deal of interest in each Scholar. To our inaugural group has exceeded and building the website and online us they are like an extended family all our expectations. The long-term application system, creating and whose progress we look forward success of the program will depend distributing information on the to following. on, and be driven by, the Scholars, Scholarship, and advising the in what they do not just at university Scholars in a range of areas. but in the many years ahead. The We are grateful to the Fellows of 2014 Scholars have done us proud Scholars House for their mentoring in their first year and we see the and leadership of the 2014 same potential in the 2015 Scholars Scholars, all of whom were the who are about to start. ‘guinea pigs’ in setting up the The contribution by, and depth of inaugural roles and activities of knowledge of, the Selection Panel such. The success of Scholars members has been incredible. It is House is crucial to us and we feel their judgement of potential the foundations have been laid for a Scholars, based on paper dynamic future.
3 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
Message from the Head of Scholars House PROFESSOR RICHARD BAKER Pro Vice-Chancellor (Student Experience)
The Tuckwell Scholarship program played a remarkable roll in starting wonderful work as Tuckwell has an exciting year ahead of it. The the process of enacting the vision Fellows in 2014. Thanks are also number of Scholars in the program Graham and Louise Tuckwell have due to the class of 2014 for putting will double with the class of 2015 for Australia’s most prestigious into practice the Tuckwell ideal of joining the inaugural class of 2014. university scholarship scheme. positively benefiting others in a An innovative enrichment program The attributes used for selecting the most practical way. I am greatly is in place to support the Tuckwell Tuckwell Scholars have proved to be indebted to them for the important vision of highly motivated students inspired and they produced an role they have played over the last fulfilling their potential and extraordinary first cohort. As the few months in assisting me to reinvesting their knowledge, skills recently appointed Head of Scholars develop the program for future and experience in ways that House, I was immediately impressed years. positively benefit others. A new by the way the Scholars have not focus in 2015 will see the class of only individually lived out the Tuckwell 2014 taking a leadership role in attributes, but have collectively running events to benefit the class formed a community that embodies of 2015. the Tuckwell vision. In 2014, the first class of Tuckwell Finally, I would like to thank Scholars excelled in living up to the Professor Simon Rice AO, very high expectations of being the Professor Susan Howitt and Dr Tuckwell program pioneers. They Mary Kilcline-Cody for all their
4 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
The Tuckwell Bell and the Bell Ringer
The centrepiece of the ANU will have on the lives of the Each cohort of Scholars must Commencement Dinner each year Tuckwell Scholars. select a Bell Ringer to ‘ring them is the ringing of the Tuckwell Bell. Music has always been very in’ at the Commencement Dinner. Commissioned by Graham and important to Louise Tuckwell, who It is up to each cohort to decide Louise Tuckwell, the Tuckwell Bell sings in her local choir. She how they elect their Bell Ringer. was cast by Britain’s oldest selected the note A, her favourite The 2014 cohort elected Matthew manufacturing company, the note, as the Bell’s tone. Jacob as the inaugural Bell Ringer Whitechapel Bell Foundry in London. The Bell was presented by the to represent them. The crafting of this handbell from Tuckwells to Scholars House as a molten metal into sound signifies gift, with the intention that it would the transformative impact that the be rung once for each new Scholar Tuckwell Scholarship program at entering the program.
5 Student stories Student stories THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
occasional assessment threatening heart condition and procrastination. However, unlike surgery for an implantable cardiac most other students, I had an defibrillator, 2014 was, needless to extraordinary support network say, rather shocking. However, consisting of Tuckwell Fellows and whilst my heart was faulty, the my fellow Scholars, on top of strong friendships that I made were academic and pastoral support in not. Much like the defibrillator, I the residential halls and academic sparked many friendships within the colleges. The Tuckwell Fellows were cohort which solidified during exam insightful, intelligent and inspiring. period as we would flock to They were always available to talk to Scholars House to study in order to and consult on a variety of issues escape the libraries. In Scholars, we ranging from academic advice to were able to help each other out on personal issues. assessments, use whiteboards to Matthew Barton, NSW As a part of the Scholarship manifest ideas in scrawl, and use Bachelor of Laws / Bachelor of Arts program, the cohort and Fellows the coffee machine that I so vitally would meet every two weeks in needed to pull me through. Throughout the year, Scholars There aren’t too many people who Scholars House to have workshops became a regular study place as it can say that they have had the discussing leadership, decision- was quiet and spacious for me to opportunity to come to ANU. making skills, and listen to a wide spread all my gear out. I will never There are even less people who can variety of guest speakers. One of my forget my time there. We studied say that their first year of university highlights of the year was an together and we may or may not was christened by breaking bread Academic Dinner at University have consumed an inordinate with the Chancellor and upper House where all Scholars invited an amount of Tim Tams which, may or echelons of the University. Fewer still academic to an Oxbridge style may not have been accompanied who can say that they met the Prime dinner organised by the Master of with peanut butter on several Minister in his office at Parliament University House. There were many occasions during the heightened House within a matter of weeks of academics from a range of periods of stress during exam time. commencing tertiary study. disciplines who were fantastic and To some, the existence of such a engaging. The best element about it Ultimately, 2014 was a fantastic year distinctive series of events defies was its relaxed nature, where we and a large part of that is because belief. However, when you discover were able to talk to academics in a of this amazing Scholarship. I am that a scholarship was the catalyst candid and open fashion. Rather forever grateful and fortunate to be for these events, you immediately than being separated by a lectern, an inaugural recipient of this wonder what it is and how the rest we were sitting right next to some prestigious Scholarship. of the year played out. So, in raw academics who had inspired us and commercial-free coverage, I throughout a course or whose area shall detail the events of the of study interested us. rollercoaster ride that was 2014. Above all else, the best thing about The Tuckwell The first thing I would highlight the Scholarship was the friendships about my experience at ANU as a that I made. I affectionately describe Fellows were Tuckwell Scholar is that this lavish 2014 as ‘My Year of Health insightful, series of events was not a common Problems’; I’m not sure if I could intelligent and occurrence. My 2014 was much like have made it through if it weren’t for most other university student’s: the friends that I made in the inspiring. attending class, making friends, Scholar cohort and the Fellows. stressing over assessments and the With the discovery of a life-
8 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
My first year in the Tuckwell together, everyone can tell we are so Scholarship has been one which has happy to spend time with each benefited me in countless ways. It other—something which I think was has allowed me to be fully highlighted at the Kioloa Camp in late independent—something which at October (which also allowed us to first terrified me. It took me sometime experience the other campus of to get the hang of everything—I admit, ANU, located at the South Coast). I walked out of the laundry, more Living in a residential college during than once, forgetting to put the my first year of university was a very washing liquid in, or completely unique opportunity. It allowed me to forgetting to turn the washing be immersed with likeminded machine on. However, with the people, and meet so many students support of the Tuckwell Fellows, from all over the world. As well as particularly my mentor, I have been Sarah Campbell, NSW the friendships I have made, I played guided to set myself up for, what I both an angry homeless person and Bachelor of Science would say, are currently the most an over-protective mother in the (Advanced) (Hons) enjoyable years of my life so far (and residential college musical—RENT, yes, I have learnt how to properly took part in sports such as Ultimate operate the washing machines). Frisbee (which allowed me to see As well as this newfound just how seriously some people One of the best independence and responsibility, take it), and get first place in the the Tuckwell Scholarship has inter-college choir competition (a experiences during allowed me to completely focus on night filled with cheering and my first year in the my university work—something I am screaming which really highlighted Tuckwell program extremely grateful for, as this too has the community felt at college). given me many opportunities. These was the community It is for these unique opportunities I opportunities include being a Peer experienced through the Tuckwell I was immediately Mentor of first year Chemistry Scholarship, and ANU, that has welcomed into. students in 2015, and an ANU made my first year at university as Student Science Ambassador for exciting and unexpected as it was. 2015. The Scholarship has also enabled me to engage with scholars and lecturers from different academic colleges, and those who I would not usually have contact with—allowing me to seek future study and career advice. One of the best experiences during my first year in the Tuckwell program was the community I was immediately welcomed into. This has comprised not only the other Tuckwell Scholars, but the Tuckwell Fellows. These people have significantly helped in areas both in my personal life and in my academic life. Every time the Scholars come
9 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
What was the best part of my first What I have most enjoyed about year at ANU? This is hard to answer, being a Tuckwell Scholar is getting as it’s been the experience as a to watch the program take form in whole that I’m sure I will always its inaugural year; it has been a remember. This experience has been special privilege. I’ve enjoyed seeing centred around my life at Ursula Hall, very different parts of the University which has been a wonderful place community, like academics, for me and for many others, and administration and, of course, which I hope to continue to be a part students come together to make of for some time to come. There are this work. It’s an outstanding countless things I could say about opportunity, and is all the more my first year at ANU, but I will say interesting to be able to go through this: coming here was a very good with such an interesting cohort of choice for me personally, Scholars from all around Australia. Marcus Dahl, NSW academically, and philosophically. The Tuckwell Scholarship has Bachelor of Laws / Some people assumed that coming provided me with a channel to meet Bachelor of Arts from the middle of the city in Sydney, and communicate with a broad I’d take a while to adjust to living in network of students and academics. Canberra. This was not the case at I’ve particularly appreciated being all for me—living here has been able to get advice from, discuss enjoyable from the very start. things, and debate with a number of The Tuckwell Canberra really is a lovely place, and people who are far more Scholarship has I’ve appreciated being able to explore accomplished than me, helping me provided me with a it this year. The University is centrally learn and grow. located and living on campus has channel to meet made life here logistically easy and and communicate very comfortable. with a broad network of students and academics.
10 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
My first year at ANU was a whirlwind Likewise, having the support of of change and activity. After so older students at Fenner Hall (my many years of high school, 2014 felt residential college) made the like a real fresh start filled with new transition to living at a self-catered experiences. Coming to ANU you college far easier. I couldn’t believe feel like you’re part of something that there was so much support in bigger. While moving to the big the college community and such a pond could be daunting at times, wide range of activities to get having the Tuckwell Scholars and involved in. A total surprise for me the support from the Fellows made was how much I enjoyed Inward it so much easier, and I think it’s Bound. I’d never done anything like helped us be far more engaged with it before and never imagined that I the University. One thing I loved could, but I just loved it. It was great about the 2014 Tuckwell program having so many Scholars from the Janet Davey, VIC was the feeling that it is just different colleges competing, and it Bachelor of Asia-Pacific Studies / beginning, and that we have such definitely helped me to navigate my Bachelor of Science freedom to shape the direction of way around Canberra! the program during our time here. When I started out, what I liked about studying at ANU was the choice of subjects available. We have such Because of the breadth, I could pick freedom to shape and choose what I enjoyed— the direction of the Chinese, Chinese studies, mathematics, and physics. In many program during our cases, there was also the option to time here. study at an appropriate level. As I wanted to continue Chinese from high school, I went straight into a class of second year students, which I found really enjoyable. It encouraged some healthy competitiveness, but it was also great studying with people more experienced with how university works who could help me out.
11 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
I found that absolutely the best thing The ability to network with the about ANU and the transition from ‘thought leaders’ of our society has high school to university generally is been an otherworldly experience. the emphasis placed on independent Many of the Scholars have become thought and critical analysis. In the quite accustomed to attending an space of a year the way I process event with Nobel Laureates, problems has changed enormously, individuals in powerful administrative particularly as a result of my law roles such as the Deputy Vice- studies. In high school the focus is Chancellor, or even Graham and largely on remembering large chunks Louise Tuckwell themselves. This of information, whereas academic has felt natural as it occurred since study at ANU pushes students to we started our journeys here at understand complex principles and ANU, however to reflect on the fact apply them to problems loaded with that we met the Prime Minister in our Joseph Dean, NSW new information. This method of first week of studies demonstrates Bachelor of Commerce / learning is inherently more just how excellent the opportunities Bachelor of Laws challenging, but knowledge and are at ANU as a Tuckwell Scholar. interest are retained at a rate Without the Tuckwell Scholarship, significantly higher than it ever was for studying at ANU would likely not me in high school. have been an option. It has also We met the Moving to Canberra, especially to made college living, one of the Burton and Garran Hall, was aspects of student life ANU prides Prime Minister excellent for developing my itself on the most, a viable option for in our first week independence. Prior to moving here I me. I do know, however, that this is of studies. was not someone who had cooked a not the full extent to which the lot, or even learnt to manage my time Tuckwell Scholarship will aid me in as efficiently as possible, but these the future; the Scholarship’s name are skills that you have to learn (and carries weight and has opened up learn quickly) at university. opportunities that wouldn’t have Transitioning from the relatively small existed without it. and sleepy city of Coffs Harbour to the nation’s capital immediately forced me into a circle of highly intelligent and capable students and academics. It is not until I reflect on the opportunities that arose in 2014, like competing in a negotiation competition sponsored by one of the Big 6 Australian legal firms, that I realise just how lucky I am to exist in this amazing web of independent thinkers.
12 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
2014 was the best year I’ve ever had, The Tuckwell program has made me all thanks to ANU and the Tuckwell realise my dreams and goals are Scholarship program. Being a part of within reach. The Fellows are keen to a group of exceptionally driven, put us in contact with renowned clever and dynamic people makes us people in fields that we’re interested all feel like anything is possible, and in. I currently work with an NGO that that is the best feeling you can focuses on maternal health in Sierra possible have at this stage in your Leone and I was put in touch with Dr life. I’ve not only loved working with Kamalini Lokuge, an expert in this them in the Tuckwell setting but I’d field with substantial experience, for definitely say that I’ve become very advice for the organisation. My close friends with a lot of the life-changing trip to work in a hospital Scholars. Their friendship has been in Tanzania for a month over the one of the most enriching elements 2014/15 summer break was inspired Catherine Hall, NSW of my year. As a group we organise by my experiences at ANU and made Bachelor of Medical Science social events outside our meetings possible by the Scholarship. and have a lot of fun together. I’ve had a lot of fun this year. In all The great thing about the Tuckwell honesty I was worried that all the Scholarship is that it’s not only other Tuckwell Scholars would be focused on being exceptional superhuman, too serious to joke, My life-changing academically; there are some too on top of everything to ever feel trip to work in a seriously brilliant Scholars among like they couldn’t cope, too us, but we also do as much as we conservative of their prodigious hospital in Tanzania can from a broad array of activities. brain cells to drink, and I would feel for a month over the I’ve been really involved with my out of my depth. Getting to know 2014/15 summer residential college, Bruce Hall, in its them I discovered that they’re the social events and sports. I’ve tried most accepting, fun and silly group break was inspired more sports than I could imagine of people. They’re all brilliant and I by my experiences including Inward Bound, an secretly admire each one so much, at ANU and made ultramarathon event you imagine but above all I’m proud to say that would have originated in Sparta. I’ve they’re my friends and I can’t wait possible by the also thrown myself into Ultimate for the future with them and the Scholarship. Frisbee, hockey, softball, basketball, incoming 2015 cohort! soccer, tennis, road relay, athletics, ANU Premier League Soccer and being named Bruce Hall Sportswoman of the Year.
13 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
The supportive college atmosphere I think my greatest achievement this at ANU is something for which I will year, setting aside anything always be grateful. At college I’ve academic or extracurricular, is been able to become friends with having grown into a more mature, people of all ages and who all have self-aware and conscientious different backgrounds and person. This seems to me a direct experiences. The safe, caring and consequence of having the support positive atmosphere fostered by of the Scholarship—from the having such a mix of older and mentoring and advice of the Fellows, younger students has allowed me to the support and friendship of the to grow more than I could have other Scholars, to the freedom the predicted, emotionally and Scholarship has granted me to not intellectually, and I’ve met people have to worry about the cost of my I’m going to be friends with for a experience. It’s an intangible and Hannah Harmelin, NSW long time to come. immeasurable ‘achievement’, but Bachelor of Asia-Pacific Studies / Moving to Canberra has been I’ve found it more important than Bachelor of Economics incredible. There are so many anything else from 2014, and I’ll opportunities in Canberra for definitely remember it more than university students, especially in my anything else. areas of interest, to learn from the I also love that best in the world, whether in your courses, at public lectures, through Canberra is city one internships and work opportunities, second and country or just through sheer proximity to so the next—it’s the many major decision-makers. I also love that Canberra is city one perfect balance of second and country the next—it’s the bustle of the the perfect balance of the bustle of CBD and the quiet of the CBD and the quiet of the bush for me. And the food is great! the bush for me. The most rewarding part of being a Tuckwell Scholar is having had the opportunity to meet the other Tuckwell Scholars—24 other incredibly motivated, intelligent, mature and passionate people from all across Australia. I’ve gained an incalculable amount from knowing all of them, and it has made such a difference to my first year because I’ve had them to laugh with, to argue with, and to learn from. It’s also been good to have such a strong group of people going through this unusual experience with me, and we’ve been able to support each other.
14 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
who had been gifted the most leadership positions and internships incredible opportunity. with how much regard the Tuckwell Another notable memory from the name was received by prospective year was being elected as the employers and academic staff. inaugural Tuckwell Bell Ringer. I use Speaking from my own experience, the word ‘elected’ fairly loosely here I do believe the scholarships as the process itself was far from contributed greatly to my democratic. Upon reflection, it more achievements in 2014. closely resembled an organised In reflecting on the year that has just campaign to throw me under the passed, it is safe to say the program proverbial bus! Yet, despite the has come a long way in a very short circumstances of my election, I was time. With recent personnel changes truly honoured to ring the bell for the towards the latter end of the year Matthew Jacob, NSW first time at our Commencement combined with a very productive Dinner. After cutting my hand on the camp, I certainly look forward to Bachelor of Politics, edge of the bell, I would strongly what the program has to offer in Philosophy and Economics / encourage future bell-ringers to sneak 2015 and in the years to come. Bachelor of Laws (Hons) in some practice before the event! As for myself, the year of 2014 has On Monday and Wednesday nights produced an album of unforgettable 2014—what a year it has been! when we held our fortnightly moments and treasured memories. Moving out of home and living at Tuckwell meetings, I vividly recall the I am eagerly looking forward to college has truly been one of the off-handed comments received from meeting the next cohort of scholars most transformative experiences of college friends as we left for and taking a new direction in my my life. Going from six years at an University House. “Look the cult is academic studies by taking up Law all-boys private school to a gathering again ... What on earth do in 2015. co-educational university college you think they actually talk about?” —it really speaks for itself! Despite —these lines and various others leaving Sydney with assurances to became all too familiar by the end of call home each week and visit the year. I can however truly say that whenever possible, I found myself what occurred at these meetings Our group of 25 anywhere but home during the was unlike anything I had ever been is the most diverse year. Using university debating as a part of before. Our group of 25 is group of a convenient foil for elaborate the most diverse group of travel plans, in 2014 I managed to extraordinary students which I have extraordinary tick-off Melbourne, New Zealand had the pleasure getting to know students which I and Malaysia. over the past year. While at times the Science students attempted to have had the While at times the Tuckwell name hijack discussions with jargon and pleasure to getting often felt like it came with strings scientific complexities, our regular attached and expectations, I will to know over past meetings were always engaging and never forget a humorous comment I were a definite highlight of the year. year. received in first week at ANU. Following a rather eventful evening, a Despite only completing its inaugural (soon to be) college friend quipped to year, the general community me the next morning, “I never would awareness and recognition of the have thought you were a Tuckwell”. Tuckwell name has been If anything, this flippant jibe reminded phenomenal. I recall numerous me that we were ordinary students times this year when applying for
15 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
opportunity to ask later-year beyond my course. I expected to get students for advice or wisdom about a good education but I have also courses or campus life. I have been inspired and engaged with thoroughly enjoyed being involved in knowledge and the world around us. a number of activities through my The first year of the Tuckwell hall. These include Inward Bound, Scholarship program has been eye academic mentoring, bible study, opening and an honour to be a part the hall play, and hall formal events. of. I expected to be encouraged to In all activities there is a desire for us pursue my goals and be developed to do our best but also to try new as an individual. Not only did that things in a supportive and inclusive occur but I was amazed by the way environment. There is a support that all the Tuckwell Scholars have network of people who truly care interacted with each other and and are able to help you with any Lucy Kirk, ACT formed as a cohort. We quickly problems that may arise. I expected became friends, team members and Bachelor of Medical Science my residence to be a place for me to a cohesive group. This is not to say live and make acquaintances, but that we agreed with each other all instead I have made friends that will I lay on a tarpaulin over wet ground. the time, but rather we spurred each last a lifetime, learnt how to do new I was in the dark, in the middle of other on to continue developing by things and was gently pushed the night, in the middle of nowhere, challenging and expanding our outside my comfort zone. double blindfolded and about to views and opinions. We are all very start a 70km adventure run and ANU is renowned for its world class different but we have a common navigation competition through the researchers and top quality courses. goal; to benefit the wider bush. I said to the guy next to me, The experiences I have had over the community. It has been eye opening “I came to university knowing that last year have made me realise what to see how different people go university students get up to crazy an amazing privilege this is. I about achieving this. The Tuckwell things, but I didn’t expect it to be expected to gain knowledge about a Scholarship program has expanded this crazy!” This was the craziness number of subjects. What I have my view of the world and challenged of the biggest interhall competition, also experienced is that passion for me to set high aims. Inward Bound, held on the last my subjects has been ignited, my During my first year at ANU in the weekend of March every year. curiosity sparked and allowed me to Tuckwell Scholarship I have learnt to Inward Bound is just one amazing engage in new and exciting expect the unexpected. Residential experience that I have had over the research. The passion that lecturers life has allowed me to make great last year that I wasn’t expecting to have for their research shows in their friends, try new things and enjoy the have. There has been many things teaching and they are more than whole university experience. High over the last year that have happy to discuss it outside of class quality lecturers and the opportunity occurred or I have been involved hours. From the very first to attend public lectures has meant with that I did not expect. For me assignment we had to use that I am excited to be studying and that sums up my experience as a knowledge learnt in class as well as have kept a broad outlook. The first year at The Australian National proper research techniques. This Tuckwell Scholarship program University as a Tuckwell Scholar; gave us the opportunity to apply challenged my ideas but also expect the unexpected! knowledge we had learnt and set up pushed me to continue to develop good habits for our future careers. Living on campus at the ANU has my views and opinions. I also attended a number of public been far better than I could have lectures on a variety of topics imagined. At my residence I have throughout the year. This allowed been able to make friends with a me to expand my knowledge and wide range of people. It gave me the remain engaged in wider issues
16 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
done, easily surpassing those times like someone was holding a hose to I’ve pushed myself until I threw up or the back of my ears; it never got easy, when I’ve come off my bike. But I’ve not for one little bit. That being said, signed up again this year and am I’ve never learned so much so quickly determined to run a better race or had nearly as much fun doing it! where I can actually enjoy the So it is that I look forward to 2015 experience. Wish me luck. with trepidation and excitement. Then there were the arts events that Excitement because I know it’s allowed me to indulge my creative going to be better than the last. side for the first time since the HSC Trepidation because I fear it might had grasped me with its talons. I be over even faster. participated in the Bruce Hall dance troupe, which was one of the most Guy Leckenby, NSW exciting things I did all year. Each rehearsal was so much fun I even Bachelor of Philosophy (Science) looked forward to getting up at 7am to squeeze them in. In fact, I had so I’ve never learned They say times speeds up as you much fun that during performance so much so quickly get older. I say time speeds up night I sang along to both tracks or had nearly as exponentially the longer you spend without even realising it. Needless to at university. My first year was say, I was the only one … Then there much fun doing it! literally a blur and sometimes I think was the Bruce Hall play that that if life is going to flash by that consumed so much time I felt like I fast, then I might very well be retiring was doing nothing else in term three. before I even know what’s Sometimes I would wake up with an happened! But amidst the blur, there identity crisis as to whether I was the are flashes of clarity, moments I do learned Wilhelm Möbius who had remember amongst the haze of new discovered the Theory of Everything knowledge and good times. or whether I was still Mr Leckenby, at the very early stages of his physics Inward Bound is one experience apprenticeship. Either way, I can still that will stay with me forever. To put remember all those soliloquies. it mildly, Bruce Hall isn’t the best at sports. Hence I was placed in I guess I need also mention the Division 3 for my first year. We Academia. I’m not exactly sure what I finished in 10 hours or so and came expected from university but it both a respectable fourth but that was lived up to my expectations and thanks to the godsend known as didn’t. Take first year Chemistry. It’s Jessie Avalon whose experience everything you expect from a course, was what got us home. Personally, builds well on what you already know, I’d sprained my ankle during week has exciting practical elements, and is two of the six-week training easy to study for. However you’ll program, which knocked me out for inevitably have horror stories to tell as four weeks. Hence, I had to run well. Mine was Maths. I thought I was 70km on what was basically my good at maths. I’d done quite well in base fitness. Needless to say, I Extension 2 Mathematics and was didn’t enjoy it. It was the most fairly confident in my analytical skills. painful piece of exercise I’ve ever But throughout the whole year I felt
17 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
As I stepped off the plane from Perth 2014 was a great year for me— to Canberra I couldn’t help but feel I’m very glad to have taken the like I had been duped. Here was me opportunity to get away from home thinking that I had left my life in hot, for my time at university. Moving to dry places behind for a fantastic sea Canberra has been a fantastic change (lake change?). I came experience. The independence of expecting Canberra to be a veritable living on my own has not only been winter wonderland; instead I was great fun, but I think it has also greeted by a heat that would cause changed me for the better. I even the hardiest Western Australian consider myself a lot more able to some serious discomfort. Apparently fend for myself than I was during my my memories of Canberra from the high school years. obligatory school trip as a kid were I was elected as the Secretary for somewhat misleading. Harrison Main, WA the Bruce Hall Common Room Fortunately for me, whilst I was Executive for 2015, and secured an Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy wrong about the weather, I was internship position for the 2014/15 and Economics / Juris Doctor pretty spot on when it came to how summer with Dean Nalder, a much fun college would prove to Member of the Western Australian be. My time at Bruce Hall has been Legislative Assembly. seriously awesome, and it’s only Aside from the obvious fact that the The students the beginning. At the time of writing Scholarship has enabled me to this piece, I’m only three days away (and staff!) at travel across the country and study from heading back to Canberra to at an excellent university, the best Bruce are engaged, get started on O-Week 2015 – I part about being a Tuckwell Scholar passionate and can’t wait! has to be my fellow Scholars. It’s friendly, which The students (and staff!) at Bruce great to be surrounded by so many are engaged, passionate and driven and ambitious people who made the transition friendly, which made the transition each have their own unique talents from living with my from living with my parents an easy and strengths. parents an easy one. The social and academic I have high hopes for 2015 to be environment that college provides is just as good! one. a unique experience that I hope more students have the opportunity to engage with. As for the academic side of things, well, there’s always next year right? I am of course referring to the fact that I have just transferred into undergraduate law for 2015! I can now masquerade as one of the many new ANU students who have chosen to study law; little do they know I have a year of university under my belt.
18 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
The best part of my year at ANU has I am extremely grateful for all the been all the people I have met! Scholarship has provided this year. Living on campus has been the Financially it has both allowed me to most intense but rewarding move to this amazing university and experience I’ve had. I have made has also taken the pressure off living some of my closest friends here, expenses, allowing me to throw being continuously inspired and myself into involvement with my supported by all the people I live college and wider ANU community. with. It has given me an environment However, the personal growth I have where I can be wholly myself and experienced both through not be afraid to try new things, interaction with the other Scholars which is an invaluable experience. and through the mentoring provided Moving from Sydney, I had by the Fellows has been just as beneficial. Morgan Marshall, NSW reservations about moving to Canberra, but it has been so much Bachelor of Asia-Pacific Studies / more amazing, and beautiful, than I Bachelor of Science could have ever imagined. The ease of living in Canberra is one of my favourite things about it as well as being surrounded by amazing I have made some opportunities. Although the size of the city is a lot smaller than I am used of my closest to, I am continuously discovering friends here, being more and more I love about it. continuously The 2014 cohort of Scholars has inspired and been a constant support and inspiration to me. Being from such supported by all the diverse backgrounds, the variety of people I live with. perspectives provided by the other Scholars is always challenging me to look at the world differently.
19 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
After an extended break following Another large component that I have Year 12, I packed my worldly enjoyed is the ability to have some possessions into the car and began input into the shape that the the long all-day drive from program will take in future years. Toowoomba, Queensland to ANU, This is due to the infancy of the Canberra. I was apprehensive but program, and at a weekend excited to be leaving home and Tuckwell retreat at ANU’s Kioloa starting my studies at ANU. As part coastal campus we were able to of the Tuckwell program all Scholars discuss what worked and what we are required to live in on-campus thought would improve the program college accommodation and I was for next year. It was great to see that lucky enough to be able to reside at our thoughts were considered when Bruce Hall. making the decisions for the program’s future. Another highlight Alex Miles, QLD During the first semester, regular Tuckwell pizza nights offered a of the year was the interview Bachelor of Business chance to get to know the other weekend for prospective 2015 Administration / Bachelor of Scholars and develop our team Tuckwell Scholars, giving tours and Engineering (Research and work. The topic and structure of getting to meet the new Scholars Development) these nights differed wildly but all was incredibly enjoyable and I allowed the Scholars to discuss and cannot wait to see them all at the get to know each other. One of my start of 2015. favourite structures to these nights I now get to the part of the program was going to see a speech and then which I felt was the most useful and The Tuckwell coming back to Scholars House and is integral to its success: that is the Fellows went to discussing the different views; this is mentoring. The Tuckwell Fellows great efforts to be where the interdisciplinary went to great efforts to be part of the backgrounds of the Scholars allowed cohort and were always available if part of the cohort for insightful conversations. Different we needed advice. An example of and were always degrees teach us a different this was when Dr Mary Kilcline Cody available if we approach to problem solving and a arranged for me to discuss research different way of thinking and it is very projects that were available with needed advice. interesting to consider the problem in another lecturer. The Fellows went to a different way. great lengths to develop a cohort and were very successful. Even though Susan and Simon will be leaving us next year, I feel confident that they would provide help and advice if I required it.
20 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
One never truly knows what to I found that Canberra unites the expect when first arriving at advantages of a large city with the university. My first year of university charm of a small town. As a person was to propel me into the great who has a background in drama world of the unknown, with risks and and is academically minded, the opportunities lying in wait in every cultural scene thrives here with nook and cranny. With my mind theatres, galleries and libraries. focused on first year courses and For my part, I benefited most the college O-week plan, the significantly from the mentorship Tuckwell program awaiting my provided by the Tuckwell Fellows. subsequent 40 weeks was merely They helped me solve problems an afterthought. ranging from questions about I was not suspecting of the role that University procedure, through Jakub Nabaglo, NSW the Tuckwell program would play in concerns about course choices, to my costume change to that of a existential crises. Bachelor of Advanced Computing / university student. Arriving, I was Bachelor of Science Only a year old, the Tuckwell already provided with an established program is still evolving. Despite society of peerless peers. This some barnacles, it was a very facilitated many hours of discussion, valuable part of my year. I am very inside and outside our fortnightly enthusiastic for 2015. meetings at Scholars House, on As a person who countless topics. has a background Following preparation by the in drama and is semester one Tuckwell program, we academically dove into our group community projects. The school mentoring minded, the cultural group, of which I form a part, is scene thrives here composed of committed and with theatres, passionate individuals; collaborating with them has been electrifying. At galleries and the Kioloa camp planning weekend, libraries. we were intoxicated by the thrill of being able to present our progress and discuss the direction for the Tuckwell program.
21 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
The best part of my first year at ANU Being surrounded by an engaged, can be simply summed up in one passionate and intelligent group of word: exposure. Exposure to new individuals has definitely been a ideas, new people, new subjects and highlight of being a Tuckwell Scholar. a new way of life. The mix of people With our different backgrounds and at ANU and all of the opportunities opinions, our conversations are available here have meant that I have entertaining and stimulating. I have encountered a wider range of certainly made some friends for life perspectives and ideas than ever through this program. before. Furthermore, having the The Tuckwell Scholarship has gone opportunity to attend regularly-run much further than providing the public lectures has ensured that I can monetary support required for me to maintain inter-disciplinary interests study at ANU, although it is very outside of my course. The courses I Catherine Perry, VIC welcome! Having individual have been studying have also been mentoring has enabled me to Bachelor of Philosophy challenging and stimulating. I have establish clear objectives and goals (Asia-Pacific) loved the choice we are provided in that I am working towards. terms of subjects, which has allowed Furthermore, the support of the me to develop knowledge and skills Tuckwell Scholarship has meant where I really want them. With having greater opportunities to regards to a new way of life, living at Having individual engage with academics in my Bruce Hall has given me the particular field of interest. mentoring has opportunity to make so many friends, and be involved in so many activities enabled me to that I enjoy. establish clear Moving up to Canberra was one of objectives and goals the best decisions I have ever made. that I am working There is plenty to do around the towards. campus and in Canberra itself, so my days are very full. I am loving life in a residential hall, surrounded by peers who act as a support system, and as your new family. Leaving home is certainly a big step, but the independence we are provided with here has enabled me to develop and start taking accountability for my actions. For me it has all been about embracing the opportunity.
22 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
The first term of university is an utter With a semester of university under blur between navigating the my belt I decided to change campus, meeting countless other degrees. The first semester students and scouting out highlighted to me the subjects I Canberra’s best cafes. I wasn’t fully loved and those I didn’t. It also was aware of what college life entailed a chance to truly experience before I moved, but I have been so university and a new learning pleasantly surprised by the sense of environment. Now, after finishing community and care, which made second semester in a new degree, the move so seamless. To me, the my eagerness to learn and do well ability to socialise and spend so has only strengthened. For me, what much time with friends has been my differs so vastly to high school, and favourite part of university life. From what I love so much about the more glitzy balls and university, is the opportunity to Elena Pleass, QLD commencement events to playing dedicate your time completely to Bachelor of Economics / Bachelor girls rugby, from studying in the early learning what interests, engages of Science hours of the morning to celebrating and inspires you. the end of exams, college life is In addition to trying out anything but boring. extracurricular activities at ANU, With specific regard to the Tuckwell I decided to end my first year by The meetings also program, it really is like no other and completing an internship at an has enhanced my university life economics and development NGO provided us with immensely. To be able to have an in Myanmar for two months over the the chance to additional support network through summer holidays. To be able to gain interact as a cohort the Tuckwell Fellows, for both first hand experience in my field of pastoral and academic care, has interest was extremely rewarding and build an even been invaluable. Our meetings while also experiencing the cultural stronger sense of provide the perfect forum to extend diversity of a country in complete cohesion and us, challenge us and enrich us as economic and social transition. My Scholars. The meetings also first year at ANU has been filled with teamwork within provided us with the chance to opportunity and I hope to continue our group. interact as a cohort and build an to pursue this in years to come. even stronger sense of cohesion and teamwork within our group. I am so grateful for this community that we have forged this year and have met some of my closest friends as a result.
23 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
2014 was an incredible year of Reaching for the stars and dreaming memorable experiences, emotions, big has never felt more normal. times of uncertainty, and moments In terms of academic and career of absolute clarity. opportunities, ANU has been a My first year as a Tuckwell Scholar dream come true. Working for the at ANU taught me a lot about NGO Palmera Projects, ANU, and myself, but most importantly, taught Australian Labor International has me the importance of making the been fascinating, enriching, and has most of every second. From being enabled me to think beyond the part of the World’s Greatest Shave borders of Australia. Attending the and subsequently being called my International Indigenous father’s second son, pulling all- Development Conference in nighters to keep up with the Auckland was a moving experience Abirami Rajkumar, NSW demands of law school (and make that highlighted the importance of up for a lack of time management), coming together to celebrate the Bachelor of Development Studies / midnight laser-tag in empty streets, amazing culture and tradition of Bachelor of Laws listening to my favourite soul artists indigenous people around the world, coming together to create a night of and the importance of recognition. utter appreciation and tranquility, The ANU Vietnam Field School hours of drinking, dancing and taught me the endless possibilities Reaching for the singing away the magnitudes of of international development, the heartbreak, to diving into makeshift wondrous nature of rural life, the stars and dreaming ball pits like five year old children, it’s importance of preserving agricultural big has never felt been a year I will never forget! practices and the role of more normal. College life has been immeasurably government in ensuring the best life fun, exciting and insightful. Who for their citizens. would’ve thought I would have My first year as a Tuckwell Scholar actually developed a desire to at ANU has opened many doors, exercise … for fun! I’ve met created life-long friendships and individuals I can honestly say I now has left me feeling invigorated, cannot see my life without—people motivated and ready for whatever from all different walks of life, with 2015 has to offer. unique views. There have been nights that fellow Tuckwell Scholars and I have been up chatting about the world, its problems, its beauty, its possibilities … and it’s made me question how it was possible that I finally met a group of individuals that really did ‘get me’.
24 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
2014, for me, can best be described I feel that this is exactly the vision as a year of contradictions. behind the Tuckwell program. In Inevitably, my Law and Science later years, I will forget the brilliant double degree has made me both grades I received, just as I will forget more cynical, and more hopeful, the absolutely woeful ones. I will than I have ever been in my entire forget the finer details of the legal life. I have become less defensive history of the Commonwealth or the and argumentative, yet I speak up relative energies of electronic more than I ever previously felt orbitals. What I will remember, capable of doing. I have never felt however, are the competitions, the quite so alone as I did in the first few performances, the friendships months of the year, a time when I made, the horrifically awkward was surrounded by the most social faux pas, and the more enormous and endless influx of new ‘eventful’ college parties. As much Bryce Robinson, VIC and exciting people. I moved away as I may have sometimes resented Bachelor of Laws / Bachelor from the family, friends and environs the pressure I experienced from of Science that I grew up in to take residence in over-indulging in all things extra- an institution, and yet I have never curricular, I will always be infinitely felt more at home. And so this year grateful for the memories, unfolded: senseless, confusing, and confidence, friendships and entirely unpredictable. worldliness that it gave rise to. For me, being a For me, being a Tuckwell Scholar Many people view the Tuckwell Tuckwell Scholar has been, first and foremost, an Scholarship as nothing more than a has been, first and invitation to dip my toe into as many very generous sum of money and foremost, an proverbial pools as possible. some awesome additional perks. The program made me feel nothing For the Tuckers of 2014, it has been invitation to dip my if not encouraged to participate in so much more. For all of the toe into as many a myriad of opportunities that have, expectations, projects, debates, proverbial pools as in some way, made my life fuller and external scepticism/stigma, internal richer. My year has been so much politics and cheeky intra-cohort possible. more than my studies; it has also scandals, I can happily say that I’ve been debating, performing, and emerged from 2014 with 27 competing. It has been teaching magnificent new friends—three young kids how to make ice-cream incredible mentors, and 24 brilliant with liquid nitrogen, discovering that young people to whom I would badminton brings out the worst in entrust the future of the world. my coordination, shameless self-promotion to secure my position as Director of Policy for the Law Students Society, or getting sassy with the delegate for the U.S. at a Model UN conference.
25 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
Some people think you have to give During those 90 minutes, we threw up a lot to displace yourself halfway around concepts and structural ideas across the country. Friends, family, about the program that were beyond your community. Recently, I’ve been anything we had previously debated. asked, “Was it worth it?” I It was at this moment that I realised responded, “Absolutely”. I’ve come the potential we had as a cohort. to realise that everything you miss The Tuckwell Interview Weekend from home never leaves you. You 2014 was, by most accounts, one of still have your friends, your favourite the best bonding exercises we café, that beautiful beach. They faced. I’d like to first apologise to the don’t truly leave. I have only profited 2015 cohort for exhausting you by moving to Canberra and beyond belief. Running a three-day becoming a Tuckwell Scholar. program for 74 students brought us Sam Saunders, VIC Being a part of the Tuckwell together. It may have been the program, I’ve shaken hands with nostalgia of reliving that weekend, or Bachelor of Economics / people I never thought I’d meet. I’ve the passion we felt advertising our Bachelor of Laws been challenged in ways I’ve never college and experiences. faced. I’ve made friendships that no In the history of the Tuckwell other program could offer. program, there is one event that I Three moments stand out when I believe grounds us—the Kiolia Being a part of the consider my first year in this Weekend. While a momentous Tuckwell program, program: a ‘Scholar only’ meeting, a occasion for the operational challenging weekend of direction of the program, I will I’ve shook hands organisational chaos and—as I like remember it as a simple weekend at with people I never to remember it—a trip to the beach the beach with friends old and thought I’d meet. with close friends. I’d like to share new—thanks for putting up with our these moments with you. ridiculous fire-side chats, Steph! I’ve been Confused, anxious, unfathomably With the incoming Scholars, 2015 will challenged in ways excited. Four words to describe the be an exciting and challenging year. I I’ve never faced. first few weeks of the Tuckwell expect the next cohort will too feel I’ve made program. Twenty-five students confused, anxious and unfathomably hand-picked from around Australia, excited. I hope they do. It’s all a part friendships that no all possessing different talents and of this journey we’re on. All I can say other program dreams. What journey were we is that I hope this journey never ends could offer. embarking on? What were we here and continues to develop beyond our to do? In my honest opinion, wildest imagination. no-one truly knew. To flesh through these questions, we met early in the first semester at Burgmann College. By ‘we’, I refer only to Scholars. This meeting ran independently of the Fellows.
26 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
What sticks in my mind about my Thus far, my Tuckwell experience first year as a Tuckwell Scholar? has been one of size. Growing as a There’s a lot of free food happening person (and in dress size) and in the Tuckwell program! From growing as a community of Tuesday night pizza in Scholars scholars. Most of all, I’ve House, to formal dinners at appreciated the vast range of University House, to the wine and people across ANU that the canapés provided after public Tuckwell program puts you in touch lectures (ANU’s best kept secret), with. There’s so much going on at the Tuckwell program has allowed ANU, and being a Scholar has really me to grow both mentally and helped me to find my feet and physically. Mostly physically … engage with our chaotic campus The most vivid memory I have from life. This program feels like the start of something big, and I’m so grateful Phoebe Skuse, NSW the program this year comes from our day at Mount Stromlo in Orientation to be a small part of it. Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy Week (O-week). It was our first formal and Economics / Juris Doctor event, and although the bus ride up the mountain felt like agony for many of us who had partied a little too hard the night before—special mention to Most of all, I’ve Tuckwell Scholar Matt Jacob—the day rapidly improved. I remember appreciated the looking around me, as we sat down vast range of together that day, and feeling that this people across ANU was the start of something big. Something that would extend beyond that the Tuckwell our time at ANU. I saw myself in thirty program puts you in years, in trouble of some sort, touch with. dropping a line to any of the other 24 Scholars and being rescued by Abi’s legal expertise, or Elena’s intimidation tactics she’ll have learnt from being a CEO of some huge corporation. I saw myself watching the news and seeing any one of the Scholars being interviewed about a recent achievement, and saying to myself “I know them! We danced at Mooseheads together every Thursday!”
27 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
campus. Although still in its early played soccer in a t-shirt and shorts. stages, working on this project has But I am pleasantly surprised to find allowed me to meet new and that I have survived winter, and have interesting people and to connect in fact enjoyed the seasonal variation. with the Indigenous community of I couldn’t possibly reflect on my year ANU, and I look forward to further without mentioning my experience of involvement in 2015. living on campus, which is an integral Nevertheless, there have been part of the Tuckwell program. I can’t certain challenges associated imagine how different my first year with being an inaugural Tuckwell would have been had I not lived at Scholar—the dress codes for Ursula Hall, where I was able to example. Coming from an participate in many extracurricular ‘alternative’ country town where activities including choir and dancing, Samantha Terry, NSW most events can be defined by and fumble my way through many whether shoes are required or not, new sports. Bachelor of Science the subtleties of ‘smart casual’ and (Advanced) (Hons) I cannot express how grateful I am to ‘semiformal’ were originally a source have been able to attend ANU as a of some bewilderment. However by Tuckwell Scholar. I would like to thank Before arriving at ANU, when I the end of the year my fellow Graham and Louise Tuckwell for the pictured my first year as a Tuckwell Scholars and I felt we had more or opportunity to be involved in this Scholar I imagined myself among a less mastered such attire. The program, which has so far been such cohort of mega-nerdy, infallibly mysterious person who sets the an amazing and formative experience. upstanding citizens—which dress codes obviously thought so thankfully turned out to be only too, because for the 2015 partly true. Our Orientation Day commencement dinner the bar was meeting at Mount Stromlo confirmed lifted to ‘lounge suit’. I am now more that we were actually all perplexed than ever as I The Tuckwell approachable and relatively normal contemplate how to walk this thin people, and that no one had two line, which according to Google lies program involved heads to accommodate their somewhere between semiformal fortnightly meetings excessive braininess. We rapidly and black tie. throughout the became a close-knit cohort, from I’ve found Canberra a great city to which I have formed some of my live in. I moved here from Dorrigo, a year, which often closest friends. town of 1,000 people, and although it featured lively The Tuckwell program involved is Australia’s capital city, I feel I have discussions that fortnightly meetings throughout the the best of both worlds here. I love would tend towards year, which often featured lively that just across Lake Burley Griffin is discussions that would tend towards Parliament House, the High Court, moral or idealistic moral or idealistic themes. These National Library and National Portrait themes. always made for an interesting Gallery, yet five minutes’ walk from evening, and were of course college is Black Mountain and the accompanied by a much anticipated National Botanic Gardens. I was a dinner of pizza or soup. A highlight little bit terrified by the idea of the of my first year in the Tuckwell Canberra climate, and this was not program was my participation in a entirely unjustified, as there was one group project to establish an afternoon this winter when it Indigenous learning community on (arguably) snowed, just before I
28 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
sports training, and provides the duration of Semester 2, an opportunity to get amongst the arts. opportunity that I am very grateful One of the most memorable events for and enjoyed immensely. for me was Big Night Out, the The Tuckwell program has provided Interhall Band Competition, where I support in more ways than one. The was a member of the Bruce Hall most obvious is the financial support, Band. The atmosphere of that event allowing me to focus on my studies was paramount to anything else I had and involvement in university and experienced before and is something college life. Another way, which may I will remember for a long time. not be so obvious, is the support of Amongst all this, I directed my the Tuckwell Fellows. Their advice, energy to doing some study. Ok, a guidance, and commitment to the little more than some. Being in the enrichment program helped my Katie Ward, QLD Bachelor of Philosophy (PhB) transition into university life. Our science degree, I need to maintain a regular meetings as a cohort Bachelor of Philosophy (Science) high distinction average, a feat that provided a space where I could demands a lot of time and effort. In interact with the other Scholars and My first year at ANU was both exactly fact, I have now spent so much time learn from other members of the what I expected, and not what I studying in Tuckwell Scholars House University. This exposure to other expected at all. I expected the stress, that it might see fit for me to start disciplines, and students from the the assignments, the tutorials, and paying rent. Semester 1 could be other halls and colleges, broadened the lectures. What I didn’t expect best described as a ‘learning curve’ the scope of my learning. were those things that made 2014 as I had to quickly figure out how to And last, but definitely not least, of the most incredible year: college, successfully manage my time the unexpected highlights of my academics, the Tuckwell program, between social events and studying, year: Canberra. Our nation’s capital and Canberra. I could have never and wrap my head around the grew on me very quickly. I was had anticipated the positive impact expectations of university. immediately taken by the beautiful that these things have had on my Thankfully, I was somewhat capable vegetation throughout the city, and year first year at ANU. of managing this by the end of the reasoning behind Canberra’s Semester 1, and can now I live at Bruce Hall, which, in my nickname of the ‘bush capital’ confidently say that it’s under control completely unbiased opinion, is the became very clear. I’ve come to find (or, at least, I hope so!). In addition to best hall on campus. It is everything that everything I need is within a my courses, I participated in two that I could’ve hoped for in a place to short walk, with ANU and Bruce Hall other academic pursuits that turned live—inclusive, supportive, friendly being situated close to the CBD. out to be highlights this year. The and vibrant. It’s through Bruce that I This has allowed me to explore first was the Undergraduate Winter have found friends that will be in my Canberra, finding different study School at Mount Stromlo life long after we leave the Hall. Bruce spots and, I’ll admit more frequently, Observatory where I spent a week has also been my main source of fun new cafes. hearing and learning from leading and excitement, with its never-ending experts in their fields. The week source of events and interesting ended with the privilege of staying at conversation. The Hall provides a Siding Springs Observatory where great community on a small scale we were given the opportunity to through lively dinner conversations observe and take data from objects and spontaneous chats in the in the night sky using the University’s corridors. It also goes beyond the 2.3m telescope. The second was a small stuff and holds social events research project undertaken at regularly, always has a handful of Mount Stromlo Observatory for the
29 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
2014 was the most exciting and Moving to Canberra has been a different year of my life. After the wonderful experience. Despite constant grind of Year 12, and the some early misgivings I have come giddying independence of the to love this city, and all that it has summer holidays, I wasn’t entirely to offer. Canberra is extremely well sure what to expect of university resourced, meaning that all of the and Tuckwell life. facilities are significantly better O-Week was an absolute blast, and than other cities in Australia. There it was good to properly meet all of are great restaurants, cafes, and the Scholars. But, as none of the bars all within a short walk from others attended John XXIII College, I campus. Being surrounded by was completely absorbed into bushland is also a massive plus, college life. The most dramatic with trail running and hiking being very accessible. Sam Wen Hua Huang, VIC change for me was the total freedom of university and college. Some of my highlights of the year Bachelor of Asia-Pacific Studies / The year was carefully, and include finally starting to study law, Bachelor of Laws sometimes imperfectly, crammed attending the Tuckwell with studying, working, socialising, Commencement Dinner, running and exercising. All of these activities the Inward Bound challenge, set in the context of a building meeting Anne Martin and the The Scholarship packed with students who never students from the ANU Tjabal sleep, and one soon realises that Centre, being elected as a sports has allowed me to self-discipline is vital. representative for John XXIII think and discuss The Tuckwell program sat College for 2015, and learning how ideas with a group somewhere within this web of to make next year even better! of highly thoughtful, events and commitments. Being so new, at times it suffered from a lack clever students. of flow, but overall the fortnightly meetings proved to be interesting and useful. Our retreat down at ANU’s Kioloa Coastal Campus towards the end of 2014 was a fantastic opportunity for discussion about the future of the program, as well as a chance for all of us to relax together. The Scholarship has allowed me to think and discuss ideas with a group of highly thoughtful, clever students.
30 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
A major passion of mine is Science. I passion for this idea still inspire me never thought I would attend a guest today. I was so absolutely moved by lecture discussing law and justice how connected with this cause she issues within an Australian context; was, and her determination in igniting an interest in me to further helping the foundation. explore justice and fairness within In conclusion, the first year of my science and more broadly. Nor did I university journey as a Tuckwell think I would receive a speech Scholar has been an absolutely exploring Game Theory at Scholars invaluable and wonderful House, expanding my decision- experience. The Scholars, Fellows making strategies as well as my and Tuckwell enrichment program understanding on how very relevant have given me such great and interpretable the theory is in our opportunities over the year, building socio-political world. Throughout the Jessica Woolnough, TAS upon my own skills, qualities, year, my fellow Scholars and the inspirations and understanding. I am Bachelor of Science (Advanced) Tuckwell program have encouraged extremely grateful to the Tuckwell (Hons) me to think beyond my own values, family, and all those involved, for opinions, view of the world, and starting and fostering such a academic field. There is such a Summing up the highlights of my wonderful program, and giving me, diversity in our cohort who, over the first year as a Tuckwell Scholar at the other Scholars and future course of the year, have raised and ANU is quite a challenge, as my year applicants the opportunity to be a discussed with me such was an exciting, busy and overall part of it. I very much look forward exceptionally valid points, fantastic year. Starting university to my second year as a Scholar, and interpretations, ideas and issues that was a bit daunting, especially having am so keen to meet and share a I would not have explored nor to move out of home, and even out journey with the incoming 2015 realised myself. They have offered of my home state of Tasmania. But Tuckwell Scholar cohort. me opportunities beyond what my waiting in O-Week was a welcoming own academic and interest areas group of first and later year students were, unquestionably extending my at my on-campus college and new understanding and thinking. home, Ursula Hall. Also welcoming me were the Tuckwell Fellows, and Not only have they encouraged me Throughout the 24 dedicated and enthusiastic to diversify my understanding and to year, my fellow individuals: the first Tuckwell Scholar experience wonderful new cohort. These individuals have not opportunities and interest areas, but Scholars and the only become my close friends, but they have continually inspired me to Tuckwell program have shared their journeys, strive beyond my current aspirations have encouraged passions, time and effort in shaping and goals. One example is when our dynamic and diverse cohort, the Catherine Hall shared her passion me to think beyond Tuckwell program, and greatly for getting involved with and my own values, enriched my year. How have the assisting the Aminata Maternal opinions, view of Scholars, Fellows, the Tuckwell Foundation in Sierra Leone, a program, and the Tuckwell family country currently experiencing some the world, and enriched my year, myself personally, of the highest infant and maternal academic field. and my years to come? I really don’t mortality rates in the world. Her think words could give it justice, but ideas on how she could help this I’ll give it a go: foundation, why such a foundation and its goals are so important, and her visible empathy, drive and
31 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
I had an amazing 2014. College life I’m extremely grateful for the was definitely one of the highlights of opportunities that the Tuckwell my 2014; I met so many new people Scholarship has afforded me; it has and have made lasting friendships. enabled me to study at ANU and The other highlight for me was the live on campus, an experience I challenging nature of the ANU would’ve otherwise been unable to undergraduate courses, which really afford. The support has extended extend students academically. well beyond this, however, giving me Moving to Canberra has given me the the opportunity to meet like-minded opportunity to really grow, allowing individuals and bounce ideas off the me to become much more Tuckwell Fellows, who are always independent. Campus life is vibrant— available when we need them. there’s always something happening. I’m looking forward to a great 2015! Sorin Zota, VIC The location is also a definite plus being so close to the city yet right in Bachelor of Finance / Bachelor of the heart of nature by the lake. Laws What I’ve most enjoyed about being a Tuckwell Scholar are the fortnightly gatherings with the Tuckwell Fellows and other Scholars in Scholars Campus life is House, where we brainstorm vibrant—there’s projects and ideas amongst other things; they are always something to always something look forward to. happening. It’s been a little daunting being a part of the inaugural Tuckwell Scholars cohort because it’s all very new and we’re still figuring out where we are heading. But as the program is evolving it’s great to be able to put forward suggestions as a group and see what will happen.
32 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
33
THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
Timeline
12 FEBRUARY Orientation Day New Scholars were joined by ANU Vice-Chancellor Ian Young AO at Mount Stromlo Observatory to introduce the program, get to know each other and the three Tuckwell Fellows, and develop the Tuckwell Scholar Code of Conduct.
21-22 FEBRUARY Commencement Weekend Scholars visited Parliament House and met Prime Minister Tony Abbott before a dinner at University House, where the inaugural cohort of Scholars were ‘rung in’ by elected Bell Ringer, Matthew Jacob.
FEBRUARY – NOVEMBER Mentoring Throughout the year, each student was assigned a Tuckwell Fellow as a mentor and they met at least twice a semester to discuss progress and plans. The Fellows also held drop-in sessions each week at Scholars House.
JULY Interview Weekend In the spirit of giving back, the Scholars volunteered at the interview weekend for the 2015 applicants, helping with accommodation queries, transport, social and group activities.
AUGUST Academic Dinner Each Scholar invited an academic to attend a formal dinner at University House hosted by Master of University House Professor Peter Kanowski. The evening was conducted in the traditional Oxbridge style.
24-26 OCTOBER Annual Camp The Scholars spent a weekend with the Tuckwell Fellows, the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Student Experience) and Tuckwell support staff at the ANU Coastal Campus at Kioloa, NSW, to review the year and plan the enrichment program for 2015.
35 THE BELL — 2015 EDITION
Interested in a Tuckwell Scholarship?
Applying for a Tuckwell Scholarship is a three-stage process that starts with an initial application from you, and a recommendation from your teacher. Shortlisted applicants will complete a more detailed application in stage two, and final candidates will be interviewed during July for stage three. Before you apply please review the selection criteria and eligibility requirements on the webpage (tuckwell.anu. edu.au), and think about whether it is the right decision for your future. In addition to this process you will, at the appropriate time, also need to make your UAC application to apply to study at ANU. Stage 1 Complete your application. Applications open on 2 March 2015 and close at 3pm AEDST on 20 March. Shortlisted candidates will be notified by 20 April and invited to apply for Stage 2. Stage 2 Applications open 27 April and close at 3pm AEST on 13 May. Shortlisted candidates will be notified by 10 June. Stage 3 The interview weekend will happen on 10-12 July. Scholarships will be announced on 13 July.
Visit tuckwell.anu.edu.au for full details on the selection criteria, eligibility requirements and how to apply. Looked at the webpage and still have a question? Contact us via the webpage contact form or via [email protected]
36
Alumni Relations & Philanthropy Building 71, 28 Balmain Crescent, The Australian National University E [email protected] | W tuckwell.anu.edu.au @TuckwellScholar