Southern Downs students among 60 Queenslanders recognised in scholarship awards

A Southern Downs student who has received a $1000 scholarship said her success was all down to planning.

Ms Waples said it was important to make time for friends.

The hard work of one Warwick teenager has been recognised after receiving a scholarship worth $1000.

Sophie Waples, who graduated from Warwick State High School last year, has been highly commended in the TJ Ryan Memorial Medal and Scholarship alongside 60 other Queensland students.

Benjamin Rogers from Stanthorpe State High School was also highly commended.

Ms Waples said her Japanese teacher nominated her last year and was “surprised” when she found out she would receive the scholarship.

“I was pretty shocked to find out, out of everyone in Queensland, I got it,” she said.

Ms Waples said she had always loved school and enjoyed doing the best she could.

“My parents were very supportive and helped me out and motivated me to keep going,“ she said.

While Ms Waples said she got a lot of satisfaction out of learning, there were times she had to sacrifice catching up with friends for a study session.

“I’d schedule my time with friends and use that as a reward,” she said.

“It’s helpful to start stuff early and get it over and done with so you have time for yourself - planning and organising time with friends is also really important.”

This year Ms Waples commenced a Bachelor of International Studies at the University of Brisbane.

She said she is enjoying the lifestyle change and said it was great to be able to work when she felt most productive.

Ms Waples said the $1000 money she was awarded had mostly gone into a savings account with some helping her get through her move to Brisbane.