Cambridge doors open for Monash scholar
A volunteer in the campaign against poverty is preparing to study at one of the world's most prestigious schools, having been awarded a scholarship to Cambridge University.
Monash University alumnus Andrew Asten was among more than 4000 applicants from around the world, and was one of only 50 candidates to receive the prestigious Gates Cambridge Scholarship.
Awarded on the basis of intellectual ability, leadership capacity, academic fit with the University of Cambridge and commitment to improving the lives of others, the Scholarship allows Mr Asten to pursue a postgraduate degree of choice.
Building on his desire to pursue a career in public policy, the law and economics double degree graduate said he will undertake a Master of Philosophy in International Relations at Cambridge.
The 2010 Young Australian of the Year finalist developed his passion for public policy and helping others through volunteering at the Oaktree Foundation, an Australian-based youth-run aid and development organisation.
“My vocation is in public policy. That’s where my skills, interests and capabilities can have a positive impact in the lives of others,” Mr Asten said.
“My intention is to engage with the strategic challenges currently facing the Asia-Pacific region and in the future make a significant contribution to effective public policy and good governance in Australia, and the region.
“I hope that my time at Cambridge will prepare me for a high-impact career in public policy and potentially politics.”
In his work at Oaktree, Andrew was integral in the campaign against poverty and through engagement with philanthropic and business supporters he helped raise over $2 million toward work in developing countries.
Currently working as a commercial lawyer, Andrew will begin work with global management consulting firm Boston Consulting Group in June.
Andrew is the third Monash University scholar to receive a Gates Cambridge Scholarship following Kathryn Crowcroft (2011) who is about to undertake a PhD and Joan Ko (2006). Six Australians won scholarships this year.
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship was established by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation in 2000, with the first class arriving at Cambridge 2001. There are now more than 1000 program scholars from over 90 countries.