Rhodes Scholar sees the funny side of life
[ UniNews Vol. 15, No. 21
13 - 27 November 2006 ]
A University of Melbourne student who performs stand-up comedy in his spare time has won the prestigious 2006 Victorian Rhodes Scholarship.
Leng Lee, in his final year of a University of Melbourne Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Commerce (Hons) degree, will travel to the United Kingdom next year to begin a Doctorate in Economic Geography at Oxford University.
Mr Lee is an outstanding student, keen sportsman and community volunteer, and was also a runner-up in the 2006 Campus Comedy State Final.
While he has supported internationally renowned funny men Hung Le and Greg Fleet in the comedy arena, he will use his time in the UK for a more serious pursuit – researching geographical patterns of economic growth in China and the Asia-Pacific region.
“China is very important to Australia, and the Asia-Pacific region generally, so a greater understanding of economic changes and outlooks in that country is really important,” Mr Lee said.
“On returning to Australia, I would like to work in foreign policy, or maybe in politics, to further define Australia’s place in the region. I’m hoping a few jokes along the way will help.”
Mr Lee was born in Malaysia in 1981 and arrived in Australia in 1987. After winning a scholarship to Haileybury College, he excelled in academic studies (finishing seventh in the State after VCE) as well as leading the school’s Firsts hockey, volleyball and debating teams. He has continued his enjoyment of athletic pursuits, playing squash and running a number of half marathons.
At the University of Melbourne, Mr Lee pursued a diverse study load, concurrently undertaking a Diploma of Arts (History and Political Science) with his Commerce and Law degrees.
He has also taken work experience in the Department of Premier and Cabinet, at top-tier law and accounting firms, as well as for the Joint Economic Committee of the United States Congress.
During his time at Melbourne, Mr Lee took up variety of tutoring roles within the University, at Janet Clarke Hall -- where he was a resident -- and in the community.
“My passion for teaching stems from my belief in education as the key to future opportunity. I’ve been extremely fortunate to have had some outstanding teachers over the years, and I hope to pay respect to their work,” Mr Lee said.
“I provide drama lessons and homework support for young people within the YMCA. A lot of our students are recent migrants from the Horn of Africa. Their English skills are limited, so I think it is especially important that the system caters for their needs.”
|
|
