Pathways to Possibility with the Monash Scholars Program

The Monash Scholars program offers high achieving students at Loreto Toorak early access to the University experience, guiding them to discover their strengths, pursue their passions, and shape their future with confidence.

Each year, a select group of high achieving Loreto Toorak students engage with Monash University to attend a broad range of activities that nurture the intellectual curiosity and compassionate leadership that enable students to thrive during their studies and beyond. Scholars attend Monash campuses, building networks with like-minded students, exploring career ambitions, and defining personal aspirations. Those who go on to study at Monash University continue to explore leadership and ambassador opportunities.

“This program provides an excellent way for students to get a head start on their university experience, build connections, and develop skills before finishing secondary school,” shares Jill Fitzsimons, Director of Teaching and Learning.

The program exposes students to what studying at Monash University involves, helping to directing their potential where it is best suited in the 10 faculties of study at the university, and compliments the Loreto Toorak Careers Program. After applying in Year 10, the program runs for the duration of the student’s Year 11 and 12 studies.

“The Monash Scholars Program opened my eyes to the different types of health and science courses available at Monash University, which showed me many options for future study,” shares Richa Srivastava (Year 12).

“The program has deepened my understanding about university life and what may be expected. I have built upon my decision to pursue areas related to science, with exposure to different lectures and learning experiences helping me consider what opportunities and requirements might be involved in a future career in STEM,” explains Sophia Lemin (Year 12).

Looking inwards, our students have already started seeing benefits in their studies at Loreto Toorak, utilising the skills they are developing in the program.

“I have significantly improved my time management and developed practical strategies to overcome moments of low productivity. What I enjoy most is the authentic sense of community, where we connect over our hobbies and personal interests just as much as our schoolwork, making it easy to build a network of like-minded friends,” Abigail Vinh (Year 11) says.

Sophia reflected on how the program is influencing her VCE studies.

“This program has taught me new approaches to study that I continue to implement throughout VCE, such as approaching problems from multiple perspectives and developing more effective revision strategies. It has also encouraged me to become more confident in contributing ideas and participate in discussion, allowing me to engage more meaningfully with others. I have become more open to challenging myself, seeking difficult tasks as opportunities to learn and step outside my comfort zone.”

Sophia joined the program in order to push herself in her studies.

“I wanted to challenge myself whilst also connecting with students who may be interested and involved in similar academic endeavours. I was particularly intrigued by the chance to explore my interests in a university environment and understand what may be expected in tertiary study.”

Richa has greatly valued the mutual connection with similarly focused students.

“I have enjoyed the connection both in person and online. I have developed my skills in being open to talk and collaborate with other students who I may not know and in finding out more about what I would like to study in the future through the valuable information on courses offered at Monash University.”

Abigail’s interest lay in connecting with a diverse network of new people, and is seeing firsthand how supportive the community is.

“So far, the experience has been incredibly supportive; whether I am reaching out to the careers department for advice or chatting with peers in our group chat, help is always accessible, and the real-life insights from current students have been invaluable.”

For our alumni who have gone on to study at Monash University, the program continues to provide benefits, opportunities, and value. 

“I broadened my understanding of the different undergraduate pathways available, ultimately supporting my decision to pursue Pharmacy at Monash. I have remained involved as a Monash Scholars Ambassador,further developing my leadership skills while supporting current high school students in their academic endeavours,” Felicia Du (2025) shares.

“I was able to experience a snapshot of university life at Monash University, where I now study a double degree of Engineering and Commerce. I have grown more confident, become more curious about topics that interest me as well as our greater world, and gained an understanding of how broad topics such as technology can relate to many different fields of study. Overall, my experience with the Monash Scholars program has been nothing but positive,” adds Jane Gunawan (2025).

The Monash Scholars Program empowers students academically and personally, supporting pathways to university and beyond. Our students are proof that when a girl knows who she is and what she stands for, she is capable of anything.

“I am immensely proud of our Monash Scholars and their hard work, dedication, and commitment to their studies and future career aspirations,” finishes Jill Fitzsimons, Director of Teaching and Learning.

Learn more about the Loreto Toorak curriculum and series of programs available to students by signing up for an upcoming Open Morning.