A supportive community
Soumi Gopalakrishnan is studying a Bachelor of Health Science, which is the first step towards her dream of studying Postgraduate Medicine.
"I really wanted to go to a uni which would help me get where I need to be in the future."
Soumi believes that being at ANU has challenged her to learn more about herself, setting her on the right path for her future in medicine.
"For me, exploring yourself is way more important than being able to study, because you first have to know who you are in order to achieve what you want to do. ANU is challenging, which I really appreciate because you need to be challenged."
The diverse campus at ANU has helped Soumi feel welcome after leaving her family in Brisbane to come to Canberra.
"I have a lot of friends from diverse backgrounds, which is really important to me. ANU has made me feel like I am at home, even though I am away from family."
This strong sense of community is something Soumi says extends from her fellow students at her on-campus residence and her lecturers.
"Having someone who you can talk to who makes sure that you're doing fine and taking care of yourself is something that I definitely appreciate at ANU."
Looking out for others and offering support whenever possible is especially important for Soumi as a recipient of the ANU Humanitarian Scholarship. She is keen to highlight the impact that donors have on scholarship recipients and the positive flow-on effects this has on the community.
"If it wasn't for the scholarship, I wouldn't be here on my way to reach my dream. It just feels great that there are people who care about people. Without them, so many students wouldn't be able to achieve their dreams. What they're doing is not just helping the individual, but the whole population in general, because when they grow up and achieve their dreams, they're going to give back."
Soumi believes that, alongside her ambition of taking on leadership opportunities, giving back will also be an important part of her future.
"I think it is very important that you give back to society, just in appreciation for everything that they have done for me."
ANU Giving Day, on Wednesday 18 September, supports students like Soumi. A gift to ANU Giving Day goes directly to scholarships and student support. Invest in the future of students and give more than a degree.
