The Tuckwell Scholarship Program is the most transformational undergraduate scholarship program in Australia. Every year, they offer 25 talented school-leavers the opportunity to fulfil their potential by actively participate in the very best that ANU has to offer. The Selection Panel selects Scholars based on intellect, character, leadership, and their commitment to Australia.  

The application process occurs in three stages with the 2025 Scholars being selected from a field of over 1,000 through a rigorous process designed to evaluate academic ability, as well as leadership potential, commitment to giving back and strength of character. The Scholars selected this year are a diverse cohort, which should contribute to a vibrant group who can learn from each other, which is one of the core aims and strengths of the Program. 

We are incredibly proud of Year 12 Grammarian, Zoe Paul, who has been awarded the prestigious Tuckwell Scholarship to the Australian National University (ANU) in Canberra. A true testament to her dedication, leadership, and pursuit of excellence, Zoe could not be more deserving of this scholarship. Throughout her eight years at Melbourne Girls Grammar, Zoe has embraced every opportunity the school has offered, developing into a well-rounded and accomplished individual, ready to take on the world beyond our red brick walls. 

Zoe’s journey at MGGS began in 2017 when she entered Year 5. “I was ready for a challenge,” she reflects, recalling her excitement upon stepping into a school renowned for its rich traditions and diverse opportunities. Her parents had chosen MGGS after hearing high praise from friends who were Old Grammarians, recognising that the School offered the right balance of co-curricular opportunities, while fostering academic excellence and personal growth. That balance, along with the warm and welcoming environment with a small student body, quickly made MGGS feel like home to Zoe. 

“At MGGS I’ve learned the importance of being able to make mistakes and putting yourself in situations where you might…That growing and challenging yourself can be scary…”

From the very start, Zoe threw herself into all that MGGS had to offer, and her co-curricular involvement became a defining aspect of her experience. While she had previously been dedicated to gymnastics outside of school, by Year 7, she shifted her focus to school sports, particularly netball and rowing. “I’ve always followed the sports that I’ve had the most fun doing,” she shares. Through these activities, she not only found friendships that would last a lifetime but also developed resilience, discipline, and the ability to balance a busy schedule of academics and athletics. 

“I’ve done a bunch of different GSV sports as well, which has at times humbled me, but it has mostly been a great break from the more intense parts of School life. Along the way, I’ve also had a go at public speaking, debating, and community service, and each experience has taught me something new.”

Zoe’s proudest achievement came in her final year, when she made the 2nd VIII Rowing crew and competed at Nationals. Rowing was not something that came easily to her, making the achievement all the more meaningful. “It was on the back of so much struggle and hard work to that point—so many hours of sweat, blisters, freezing Yarra mornings, grueling ergs, and long days at Rowing Camp.” For Zoe, earning her place in that boat was a reward for her perseverance and determination, a moment of triumph that underscored her ability to rise to a challenge, even when it felt daunting. 

Beyond sports, Zoe has excelled academically and shown a passion for leadership and service. As Mungo House Captain in her final year, she took on a role that allowed her to give back to the MGGS community, inspiring younger students and fostering a sense of unity within the House. “At MGGS, I’ve learned the importance of being able to make mistakes and putting yourself in situations where you might,” she says, highlighting one of the most valuable lessons she’ll carry with her into the future. Embracing challenges and stepping out of her comfort zone have become second nature to Zoe, shaping her into the confident and capable leader she is today. Despite being a self-proclaimed “chronically slow runner” she competed in a half-marathon in Cambodia in 2023, and stood up to give DAV Debating a go, even when she’d never done it before. 

“Another skill that Melbourne Girls Grammar has taught me is public speaking! After many speeches for Valedictory, House, and sporting events this year, I’ve been able to reflect and appreciate how important this skill is.”

Zoe’s success, both in and out of the classroom, has been supported by the exceptional teachers at MGGS. She fondly recalls how some, like Dr Wang and Ms Foster, have been with her since her earliest days at the school, witnessing her growth every step of the way. “My teachers’ reactions to my Tuckwell Scholarship were seriously heartwarming,” she says, noting the profound impact they have had on her journey. Their dedication, combined with her hard work, has prepared her well for the next stage of her academic career. 

“I’m excited to do them [her teachers] proud beyond school, but it’s bittersweet knowing that they aren’t going to be at my university classes next year.”

In 2024, Zoe will begin her studies at ANU, where she plans to pursue a double degree in Law and Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE). It’s a path that may seem like a pivot from her current subjects, but one that aligns with her deep interest in understanding how the world works and making a positive impact on it. Her future aspirations include traveling and possibly studying overseas, a reflection of her adventurous spirit and desire to broaden her horizons. 

As she prepares to leave MGGS, Zoe will miss many things about the school, especially the tight-knit community she’s found in the Boarding House. The friendships, the laughter, and even the Yo-Chi trips will always hold a special place in her heart. But as she looks ahead, she’s excited for the new experiences that await her, confident that the lessons and values instilled in her at MGGS will continue to guide her. 

Zoe’s story is one of hard work, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Her achievements, capped by the Tuckwell Scholarship, are a testament to her determination and the unwavering support of her teachers, peers, and family. As she embarks on this new chapter, Zoe leaves behind a legacy of leadership and inspiration at MGGS, ready to make her mark on the world. Her advice to younger Grammarians is simply, “work hard, play hard.”