Murdoch University’s highest-performing students were celebrated at the recent Vice Chancellor’s Commendation for Academic Awards Ceremony at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The 280 successful students are in the top 2 per cent of those enrolled in a Bachelor degree at Murdoch across three campuses, achieving high distinction grades in a high percentage of units and a high grade point average.

In a speech at the ceremony, one of the top achievers Wenna Lee, who is studying for a Bachelor of Science (Clinical Laboratory Science and Biomedical Science), said success was down to application and hard work, not just intelligence.

“High achievers require a more diverse range of attributes than simply being gifted with a high IQ,” Ms Lee said.

“Take for example when studying for an exam, everyone feels the strain… It’s times like these that we call on our sheer grit to overcome our physical fatigue and mental discipline to redirect our straying thoughts. And for that effort, we are here being acknowledged at this prestigious event.”

The next generation of future shapers

Vice Chancellor Professor Eeva Leinonen praised the students for their hard work, focus and sacrifice, and also acknowledged the support and guidance of their lecturers, tutors, mentors, fellow students, families and friends.

“Each of this year’s recipients have lived true to the Murdoch ethos by excelling, pushing boundaries and being the best they can be,” Professor Leinonen said.

“At Murdoch University we encourage every single one of our graduates to set high goals, to use the skills they have learned with rigour and integrity and for the benefit of others.

We want them to be confident in looking at the world’s big challenges. We want them to be ready and willing to make a difference – to be a creative force for future generations.”

The recognition that comes with a Vice Chancellor’s Commendation for Academic Excellence assists students in their pursuit of employment, or entry to higher degree study places and scholarships.