SHE’S TOP OF THE CLASS
Nikki Cornwell, who has just received an honorary medal for her achievements at Bond University, says being able to schedule in her social life with academic commitments was a key to success
IT TAKES more than good work ethic, diligence, and passion for learning to excel in university — especially one that prides itself on academic excellence.
Nikki Cornwell has graduated from Bond University with an honorary medal for having the highest level of achievement in the Business Faculty with a diploma in actuarial science.
The Steven Johnson Memorial Award, which is not handed out regularly, is only reserved for students who distinguish themselves in academic performance.
This year’s graduating class was the largest in Bond University’s history, making Cornwell’s chances of standing out among her classmates even more challenging.
Even with the large number of graduates, the Toowoombaraised student’s record of academics stood out.
Bond’s Business School Executive Dean Professor Terry O’Neill considers Cornwell’s success to be a product of her strong work ethic.
“The future is incredibly bright for this intelligent, determined young woman,” Prof O’Neill said.
So how did Cornwell manage to win this award while making the most of her university life?
She credits her success to finding a balance.
Considering herself an avid planner and organiser, Cornwell found keeping up with her diary the most essential part of her routine.
“I would always plan ahead, make lists, and build a timetable,” Cornwell said.
“If I wrote it down I made sure I would follow-through with it.”
Her routine was often challenged by last-minute cancellations or changes to her schedule which would cause stress while planning out her studies.
Besides finding time to focus on her university work, Cornwell also realised the importance of maintaining a social life and physical activity regimen that would allow her to de-stress and revitalise.
“I joined sports clubs like netball, touch, and rowing so I could be surrounded by my friends and meet new people,” she said.
When Cornwell wanted to break away from the stress of studying she would go for a jog to clear her mind.
Her success at Bond gave her the opportunity to score a internship with KPMG in Sydney working with a new risk strategy and technology team, following an internship with Westpac.
“I really enjoyed my internship, it gave me exposure into the world I’ll be entering soon,” she said.
Cornwell’s success was made possible by support from her family and teachers, to which she is incredibly thankful.
“The support from the people around me while at Bond made my time and achievements at uni possible.
“In particular, my Mum and Dad and sister, as well as my friends and the incredible staff at Bond.”
Dr Adrian Gepp, the Assistant Professor of Actuarial Science and Big Data remembers meeting Cornwell in her first actuarial science class.
“Her enthusiasm for learning and personal growth made Nikki a pleasure to teach and get to know,” Dr Gepp said.
“We are incredibly proud to call Nikki a Bondie and a Bond alumnus.”
On February 17, Cornwell was joined by her family who made the trip all the way from Toowoomba, and now, they’ll head to South America to celebrate.
After taking a well-deserved break, Cornwell hopes to continue her exploration into the world of actuarial science by returning to Bond University in May to complete the honours program.