Published by Communications and Public Affairs (519) 824-4120, Ext. 56982 or 53338
News Release
December 06, 1999
U of G student named Rhodes Scholar
Allison Bachlet, an Honours B.Sc. student in Nutritional Sciences, has won a prestigious Rhodes Scholarship to pursue graduate studies in medicine and clinical research at the University of Oxford.
She is one of two students from Ontario -- and 11 nationwide -- to receive a Rhodes Scholarship this year. The award is worth approximately $25,000 US per year.
"I literally thought that I was dreaming when I found out," Bachlet said. "I'm so excited that I'll have the opportunity to study at Oxford, one of the most elite universities in the world, and to meet students from all over the world. I'm also very thankful to all the people at Guelph who've helped me and served as an inspiration."
Bachlet is a former President's Scholar and a Peer Helper award-winner. She received a 1999 research grant from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) to study breast cancer. She has served as a volunteer at local hospitals and nursing homes, and is a fitness instructor at U of G's Athletic Centre and an avid long-distance runner.
As an NSERC award winner, Bachlet worked this past summer in the lab of Prof. Kelly Meckling-Gill, Human Biology and Nutritional Sciences. "Allison Bachlet is an exceptional young woman," says Meckling-Gill. "Although she has excellent academic grades, Allison is more than marks. She combines superior intellect and research skills with a personal warmth and compassion."
"My congratulations to Allison on this wonderful achievement," said University of Guelph president Mordechai Rozanski. "This Scholarship is testimony to her superior academic accomplishments, and, as important, reflects her exemplary contributions as a leader and volunteer in our community and elsewhere. Allison has a bright future ahead of her, and will be an excellent ambassador for the University of Guelph. I also offer my congratulations to her mentors and all members of the Department of Human Biology and Nutritional Sciences and the College of Biological Science, who have done such a magnificent job in helping Allison achieve academic success and inspired her to embark on a career of service to others."
Students from about 20 countries compete annually for 90 Rhodes Scholarships. Created in 1902 and named for Cecil Rhodes, the scholarships recognize "high academic achievement, integrity of character, a spirit of unselfishness, respect for others, potential leadership and physical vigour."
For more information or to arrange an interview with Bachlet, contact Communications and Public Affairs at 519-824-4120, Ext. 6982.
