By REBECCA WALSH
If there is one thing Olivia En does not want to be, it is mediocre. But there is little chance of that.
The Avondale College seventh former is one of three Auckland secondary students to be awarded a Sir George Elliot Trust Tertiary Scholarship, worth $20,000.
She is in the school choir, plays the piano and flute, competes in debates and has represented her school in an international problem-solving competition.
She has also been blind since being struck by a viral infection at 18 months old.
Olivia has never let her handicap stop her doing anything she wanted.
She has achieved top grades at school and managed to squeeze in an English paper at university - getting an A in the process.
The youngest of 16 children, Olivia migrated with her family from Vietnam at the age of three. The 17-year-old was delighted at receiving the scholarship and relieved she would not have to worry about "financial stuff."
She plans to study law and arts at Otago University. "I don't want to be mediocre. I want to be at the top of whatever I choose to do."
That determination is shared by fellow winners Karen Evans, of Baradene College in Remuera, and Hamish McCarroll, of Sacred Heart College in Glen Innes.
Karen, also 17, wants to study genetics and is interested in medical or ethical law.
"I think it will be a hugely developing field. There will be lots of opportunities and challenge."
Hamish, 17, is interested in diplomacy, and while he plans to gain work experience overseas he wants to return to NZ. "It's where my loyalty lies. I want to come back from overseas better for the experience."
The trio will be presented with their awards in Auckland today. The scholarships, named after a former president of the Auckland Chamber of Commerce, recognise outstanding academic, sporting and cultural achievement. Students must also demonstrate a need for financial aid.
Scholars allow no limits to goals
AdvertisementAdvertise with NZME.