Three postgraduate students have been honoured with Campus Director’s Leadership Awards, announced at the CQU Melbourne Graduation Ceremony on May 17.

Parampreet Singh, Fan Zhou (Felix) and Kan Choi Ha (Daisy) were selected based on their outstanding academic results, dedicated attitude and leadership qualities.

Parampreet received six high distinctions in the final two semesters of his Master of Information Systems. He is known for having spent much time helping other students throughout his studies - a task which he finds very rewarding.

CQU staff describe Parampreet as very well organised, enthusiastic and greatly respected by his fellow students.

He has also been actively involved with TECC (Training, Employment and Careers Coaching unit), Language Support Unit and other non-academic activities on campus, including organising a traditional dance performance from his home of Punjab, India for guests at the graduation ceremony.

Having completed his undergraduate studies in India, a friend suggested Parampreet come to Australia and study at CQU.

He has now applied for permanent residency and hopes to find full-time work, preferably a teaching position, in Australia.

Felix also plans to stay and work in Australia, claiming to have fallen in love with the environment.

Originally from Shanghai in China, Felix moved to Australia to complete his postgraduate studies and acquire English language skills.

When he arrived, Felix had no English comprehension or oral knowledge and understood very little of the vocabulary he heard. Two years later, through dedication and self discipline, he has mastered the language and has achieved outstanding results in his Master of Information Systems studies.

Felix has been recognised for the assistance he has given to other students, as well as his organisational skills and ability to balance study and work life. He has been closely involved with the LSU and is now working voluntarily in a communications role for Oxfam.

Daisy also chose to come to Australia to improve her English skills after completing school in Hong Kong.

She has been selected for the Award based on her excellent results and commitment through both her undergraduate and postgraduate (MBA) studies at CQU.

Staff say Daisy’s positive attitude, good study habits and exceptional attendance record sets an example for other students.

Despite her personal dedication, Daisy also attributes much of her success to the support and assistance of academic staff, the LSU and her friends on campus. She now plans to return home and find work.

All three graduates say the initial adjustment to life in Australia was difficult, particularly noticing differences in social interaction and communication.

Once established, supportive friendship networks have been crucial to the Award winners’ academic success and general happiness. They say juggling work, study and personal issues can be difficult, but urge all students to make the most of the opportunity for learning, growth and enjoyment CQU offers.

Photo: (L-R) Fan Zhou (Felix), Kan Choi Ha (Daisy), Acting Campus Director Darryl Stewart and Parampreet Singh.