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Bridge to China

17 September 2008

Kristian Rodd and James Kett

Monash students Kristian Rodd and James Kett have both received scholarships to study in China for their performance at the recent Chinese Bridge competition held by the Chinese Government in Changsha, Hunan Province. The prestigious competition is an annual event held to promote the study of Chinese language by non-native speakers.

The students were representing Melbourne, after receiving first and second place in the Victorian round of the competition earlier this year.

The final stage of the competition saw 110 competitors from 55 countries participate in a demanding final round, which required students to complete a range of tasks in Chinese language including written examinations, interviews, artistic performances, speeches, role-playing and debates.

As the recipient of second place in the competition, Kristian has been awarded an all-expenses paid scholarship to study in China for 12 months.

James, who received an award for Outstanding Originality, was also granted a six-month scholarship, covering all relevant study and living costs.

The achievements of both students, the best results of any Australian university students to date, follow strong performances by other Monash students in previous years.

For more information visit the Chinese Studies Program website.