Meet Gyan - Narrm Scholar

From rural North-West Queensland to the heart of Melbourne, Gyan’s move to study at the Melbourne School of Design was driven by a desire to make a difference in the world. Drawn to the faculty’s values, especially sustainability and how it can be embedded into learning, he saw Melbourne as the perfect place to pursue his goals.

“I was attracted to the design faculty and its community and values, such as sustainability and how it can be incorporated into learning.”

But the distance and cost of living away from family were daunting. Receiving the Narrm Scholarship gave him the confidence to make the move.

“Receiving a Narrm Scholarship was a symbol of my determination to achieve a tertiary education! It is a motivator for me to continue working hard in my studies.”

Connecting with other students

Ahead of Orientation Week, Gyan joined other Narrm Scholars for a pre-orientation camp at the Parkville campus.

“I was definitely supported coming to Melbourne by the Narrm Scholarship program through the pre-orientation camp, where I got to meet other scholars, but also the friendly staff who I’ve become acquainted with.”

Since then, Gyan has built strong connections within his Scholar community, meeting up with friends at favourite campus spots like University Square outside the Law Building.

Clubs and societies have also helped him find belonging within Melbourne’s diverse culture.

“I love the different communities I’ve joined in Melbourne, such as the Narrm Scholars, Trinity College and even the Filipino Students Association.”

As communications officer for the Filipino Students Association, Gyan connects with his culture and inspires others. He is also a chapel assistant at Trinity College, adding another supportive community to his university life.

“From the financial benefits to the programs and staff, the Narrm Scholarship has been integral in supporting my studies and social life.”

Creating opportunities to explore different passions

The Melbourne curriculum gave Gyan the flexibility to change his major from Architecture to Civil Engineering Systems, a decision that further motivated him in his studies.

Breadth subjects have broadened his horizons beyond design.

“I love meeting my classmates and how sometimes they aren’t in the design faculty – it creates a diverse environment to understand different perspectives.”

“I was able to explore my hobbies outside my degree with Fine Arts and Music.”

Gyan’s curiosity also led him to a winter exchange program at Korea University, where he immersed himself in a new culture.

“This experience has been amazing because I never would’ve imagined I would be solo travelling while I was at university.”

“Through this experience, I was able to meet new people internationally but also learn and appreciate the culture in South Korea.”

Thinking about the future

Looking ahead, Gyan is considering further study through a Master of Architecture or Master of Architectural Engineering.

His advice to Year 12 students, especially those moving away from home, is to be bold.

“I don’t think I would’ve been able to go to places and meet new people if I didn’t take the step to explore the unknown and go out of my comfort zone.

"Thankfully, the University of Melbourne has helped me in taking those steps and pushing me forward with their programs and staff.”

The Narrm Scholarship has given him experiences and support networks he wouldn’t have otherwise.

“I learnt how to think critically and form more nuanced opinions through my classes, which has definitely helped build my character, identity, and what I want in life.

“I have been able to meet new people who I call my dear friends, also be acquainted with the friendly staff, which has been a part of my support network.”