Devine Anokwute is setting the bar for future Holy Rosary High School students after graduating at 15.
On top of that accomplishment, she also won the $10,000 Scholars Admission Award scholarship for the school of her choice — the University of Toronto.
“The award specifically recognizes and rewards the university’s most outstanding secondary school students on admission,” states the U of T’s website. “It’s considered one of the most prestigious entrance scholarships at the University of Toronto.”
Read more: HRHS student awarded $30K scholarship
“It means a lot,” said Anokwute. “It shows how much I’ve overcome in the adversities I’ve had to go through.”
She said her family’s support helped her face those challenges and gave her strength, bringing out a side she didn’t know she had.
To earn the award, she had to work far ahead of schedule. She started high school courses early, taking Grade 10, 11 and 12 classes in her Grade 9 year.
“I had to sacrifice some of my summer trips in Grade 9 and 10 in order to accelerate my education and graduate in Grade 11,” she said, encouraging others to go for their goals, even when it gets tough.
“You will have your lows, but once you see the bright light on the other side, you’ll see it is possible.”
She said it’s hard watching others have fun while you’re working, however, “hard work brings bigger rewards.”
“The things you do now will help you in the future and provide more doors and opportunities than you would have had before,” she said.
Anokwute will head to the University of Toronto this fall. She’s never been to the Big Smoke but she’s excited for the change.
“This will be my first time,” she said. “It’s a new experience in a new setting.”
She will study human biology with a focus on health sciences. Her goal is to become a doctor and one day specialize in obstetrics and gynecology.
Devine will join her older sister, Favour, in Ontario, to attend the same program at the U of T. She said winning the award helped make that possible for both of them.
“It does help to cut down the cost,” she said.
Anokwute recommends students research schools well before deciding on a future and noted meetings with counsellors helped her stay on track.
“If you are thinking of going there, I definitely recommend setting up meeting with counsellors and advisors,” she said.
Read more: Over $100K in scholarships for two Holy Rosary students
