Rhodes Scholarship heritage in the bag

Achievement

When the University of Adelaide's 100th Rhodes Scholar Nicole Krzys heads to her studies at Oxford University she will have a symbol of South Australia's proud pioneering heritage to carry with her.

The University recently held a special presentation ceremony to celebrate Nicole's success last year in becoming the University's 100th Rhodes Scholar. She was presented with a unique memento - an RM Williams travelling bag branded with the University's official coat of arms and the number 100.

University of Adelaide Vice-Chancellor and President Professor James McWha said: "This presentation to Nicole aims to recognise and emphasise the importance of excellence within the University's and South Australia's proud heritage.

"In the same way as our pioneers of the past, we send our Rhodes Scholars out on a great adventure - to further their achievements, establish their careers and, we are sure, to make an impact in their field.

"What began with Adelaide's first Rhodes Scholar in 1904 - Norman Jolly - has become a legacy of brilliant Adelaide scholars in all fields of study spanning more than 100 years.

"Nicole has become part of that history and tradition and we hope to hear great things from her over the coming years."

Nicole graduated from the University of Adelaide last year with a Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery and an Honours degree in Philosophy and this year is completing her medical internship.

She will head to Oxford University next year to begin her studies for a D.Phil (PhD) in Philosophy and will focus on cognitive science and schizophrenia.

"The Rhodes Scholarship is an amazing opportunity to develop my understanding in this area and to contribute to the treatment of mental illness," she said.

Story by Robyn Mills