Every year, we have many GIS Alumni graduating from various universities around the world. We are very proud of all their academic achievements across a wide range of disciplines. This week, we shine the spotlight on Alumna Alexandria Wilks (Class of 2016) . Alexandria has recently completed a Bachelor of Science in Immunology and Microbiology from Melbourne University with First Class Honours. Truly a fabulous achievement!
Alexandria, can you tell us more about your academic journey to date?
After 8 years spent at GIS, my family and I moved to Australia. I continued my Secondary schooling in Adelaide and completed the last two years in Perth. Upon completing high school, I received an offer from the University of Melbourne. Despite all the excitement, I did not feel quite ready to ‘leave the nest’, so I decided to take a gap year to work and travel.
During that gap year, I learned to be more independent and acquired an immense amount of life experience, equipping me to take on the next journey in my life – a journey which would be completely mine. I then embarked on three years at the University of Melbourne as a Bachelor of Science student majoring in Microbiology and Immunology. As of a week ago, I am now a Bachelor of Science graduate!
What are your fondest GIS memories?
My fondest memories at GIS would have to be the primary years. I made great friends during those years, many of whom I am still friends with today. Despite the academic focus in the classroom, we still managed to have our fun. From accidentally knocking out a friend’s tooth (because I got a little too excited playing football…) to the many amusing memories we made during camps and Discovery Week trips – my peers at GIS not only made my time at GIS special, but my childhood wonderful!
How do you feel GIS helped you to get where you are today?
Childhood is an impressionable stage of one’s life, a period where a child establishes their sense of identity. At an early age, GIS instilled in me the desire to do my best in everything I do. Throughout life, I have lived by the mentality that if a job is worth doing, it is worth doing well. I have GIS to thank for imparting the dedication and self-motivation I have towards my passions and aspirations.
Do you have any advice for students soon to embark on their university studies?
Going to University is the first chapter of YOUR story. Indeed, you are there to pursue your goal, but don’t forget to enjoy the journey! Be open to new experiences and views and really try to make the most of it.