Each year, the ACG Founders Scholarship recognises an exceptional student who exemplifies academic excellence, leadership, and a bold vision for the future. The 2024 recipient, Rasleen Singh, an outstanding graduate of ACG Strathallan, embodies these qualities, demonstrating a remarkable commitment to learning and a passion for scientific advancement.

A Journey of Dedication and Achievement

Originally from Malaysia and born in Singapore, Rasleen Singh moved to New Zealand in 2015 at the age of eight and spent over nine years at ACG Strathallan. Reflecting on the moment she was announced as the scholarship recipient during the Senior Prizegiving, she recalls a mix of surprise and elation.
“The suspense from the time I completed my interview to prizegiving day was super tense, and I was astonished to be announced as the recipient of this scholarship. The moment my name echoed through the hall; a surge of elation washed over me. Standing on that stage and receiving my first-ever standing ovation from an audience of parents, students, and staff was an overwhelmingly positive experience. It was a culmination of years of dedication to academic pursuit.”

Academic Excellence and Passion for Learning

Rasleen’s impressive academic record speaks volumes about her dedication. Recognised as Top Scholar multiple times between 2016 and 2024, she also participated in the New Zealand Chemistry Olympiad training camp and numerous academic competitions, including the International Chemistry Quiz, ICAS, and the University of Auckland Engineering Science Competition. Her relentless pursuit of knowledge, particularly in the sciences, has driven her success.

At the Senior Prizegiving, Rasleen was honoured as College Dux, securing first place in A-Level Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, and third in A-Level English Language. Her achievements were further recognised with the Best All-Round Performance Award.

Leadership, Integrity, and a Drive to Inspire

Beyond academics, Rasleen’s leadership roles have shaped her character and strengthened her integrity. “My leadership roles have given me the courage to always dig deeper – to fine-tune the discipline to not only inspire myself but also to motivate others.”

Her perseverance was exemplified by completing the Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award despite time constraints, reflecting her dedication to personal growth and community service. In addition to her leadership roles at school, Rasleen is also a 3rd Dan Black Belt and serves as the student leader of her karate dojo, where she applies her discipline and passion for mentorship.

The ACG Strathallan Experience

The nurturing environment at ACG Strathallan played a crucial role in fostering these qualities. “The school’s holistic approach to education, blending rigorous academics with a wealth of extracurricular opportunities and exceptional pastoral care, allowed me to flourish. The teachers were immensely talented, and the inclusive atmosphere enabled me to explore ideas freely and receive invaluable constructive feedback.”

A Vision for the Future

With a bold vision for a career in medical research, Rasleen initially aspired to study Natural Sciences at Gonville & Caius College, University of Cambridge. While offered a place at Lucy Cavendish College, she has chosen to embark on a Medicine programme at UNSW in Sydney, aligning with her long-term goal of contributing to neurological and oncology research. She remains steadfast in her ambition to pursue postgraduate studies at Cambridge.

“This scholarship is pivotal in enabling me to pursue my vision, providing the resources and support to undertake rigorous studies and gain overseas experience. My goal is to contribute to groundbreaking research in neurology and neurodegenerative diseases, both overseas and back home in New Zealand.”

The Impact of the Scholarship

Beyond financial support, the scholarship alleviates concerns about the rising cost of living and enables Rasleen to maintain strong connections with her family and community in New Zealand. She also hopes to leverage networking opportunities with fellow recipients and the alumni network, gaining insights and career pathways that would not have been readily available otherwise.

Cherished Memories at ACG Strathallan

Reflecting on her time at ACG Strathallan, Rasleen highlights her Year 13 experience as a standout moment.

“Everything blended so well – my dedication and perseverance paid off when I was chosen as Head of House, hockey captain, and student leader of my karate dojo. I balanced my studies, secured excellent grades, and received the College Dux Award and Best All-Rounder Award. I also had lots of fun at Tournament Week, my Jazz Band trip, Senior Ball (where I was crowned Queen of the Ball), and Graduation Dinner.”

Lessons for Success

Having cultivated invaluable values of pride, integrity, respect, empathy, and compassion, Rasleen advises fellow students to work smart, seek mentorship, and engage in diverse activities.

“Offer to tutor younger students – you end up learning better when you teach. Stay involved in extracurriculars. Karate, for example, helped me develop discipline and composure under pressure. Lastly, make time for hobbies – the creativity I explored through the Arts complemented the rigours of my STEM subjects and enriched my school experience.”

A Future Filled with Promise

With an unwavering drive for excellence and a clear vision for the future, the 2024 ACG Founders Scholarship recipient, Rasleen Singh, is poised to make a meaningful impact in the field of medical research. Her journey at ACG Strathallan has laid the foundation for a bright and inspiring future, demonstrating the power of dedication, integrity, and ambition in shaping success.