Tarneit’s Leah Beech has scored the ultimate foot in the door.
The year 11 Heathdale Christian College student has been accepted into the Kwong Lee Dow Scholars program from Melbourne University, where she gets access to the Melbourne University library, takes part in VCE revision lectures, is invited to attend leadership events and can spend the night on campus.
Leah had to be in the top five per cent of her year level academically to qualify.
“It’s not immediate access to the uni after you finish; but it’s a big foot in the door, and you get to meet like-minded people through their programs,” she said.
“If you get a 95 ATAR, you’re automatically accepted into the university – but that’s very high.
“I couldn’t believe it … I guess my personality showed through in my application. I’m so excited to be a part of it.”
The 16-year-old is taking on her first year 12 subject this year, maths methods, and hopes the extra VCE subject will help her get the grades required to study medicine at Melbourne University. She is particularly keen on paediatrics, and wants to work with children on the autism spectrum disorder.
“I also want to use natural medicine – diet, and things like that – not all just pills and potions. I’m really interested in science and the human body, and my mum’s a kinder teacher, so I guess that’s where the influence comes from.”
In her spare time Leah also plays with the Heathdale basketball team and a social netball team, and has a casual job.
Charlene Macaulay
