A Woombye teenager’s first-year Biomedical Science studies at the University of the Sunshine Coast have received a $32,000 boost after she was awarded a Thompson Excellence Scholarship.

Vanessa Hooper, 18, who was last year’s dux and captain of Burnside State High School, is one of four USC undergraduates to this year receive the prestigious scholarship, awarded on the basis of academic achievement and leadership.

“This scholarship has taken such a load off my shoulders as I don’t have to work long hours to pay for uni, but can instead focus on my studies and put all my effort into achieving great marks,” Vanessa said.

The annual scholarships were launched in 2015 as part of a $5 million gift to the University by Roy and Nola Thompson.

Vanessa said she aimed to work in leading-edge medical research, particularly relating to genetics.

“So far I’m really impressed with my degree,” she said. “I’m loving the content and the quality of teaching and I can’t wait to build on my skills in future studies.”

Both of Vanessa’s elder siblings also studied science at USC.

Vanessa gained an OP1 at high school, was a member of her school’s student representative council and received an Academic Honours and Caltex Best All-Rounder Award in Year 12.

She became interested in the functioning of the human body after attending a seminar at the Queensland Institute of Medical Research.

“After reading the Bachelor of Biomedical Science course description at USC, I thought it aligned with my interests and would be a great opportunity to pursue my career.”

— Julie Schomberg