Pascal Millaire is taking some time out - by studying.
The 18-year-old Auckland University student from Silverdale is the second recipient of the Douglas Myers scholarship, valued at $200,000, and will start at Cambridge University in England in October.
He was head prefect at King's College last year, and is studying Spanish,
Maori and English at university for one semester.
It will, he thinks, allow some "down time" before heading into the lofty academic arena of Cambridge, where he will study for a four-year social and political sciences degree.
"Obviously it's extremely academic," he says. "The workload's heavy, but they just have such awesome professors over there.
"And I'm sure some of my peers will have great minds too. It pushes you to be your best."
He has known for two weeks about the scholarship, and says the moment he heard was a memorable one.
"I mean, it's not something you expect to get. I couldn't stand and my knees turned to jelly when I was told. It's still sinking in."
Pascal met the man who established the $3 million scholarship fund at a dinner before the decision was announced.
"Douglas Myers - he's chosen to make a huge contribution to the learning of young New Zealanders.
"It's fantastic to think he's offering these chances to students. I can't say enough about him."
Pascal hopes to return to New Zealand in the future and forge a career in public service orpolitics in the long term.
"I've been away a lot, and will be away, but New Zealand is where my heart is."
Mr Myers says Pascal was a clear-cut choice. "I see no reason why he shouldn't succeed," said the former Lion Nathan chief.
Pascal hopes to have time to pursue some of his other loves when at Cambridge: drama, hockey and debating.
After all, he says: "You can't have your head in the books all day every day."
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