College – Issue 30

since. An intermediate teacher once commented they were “thick as thieves” and a friendly rivalry has always existed between them. They have both been in Harper House and in many classes together. Anthony Baker says, “I’m absolutely stoked to be academic Head of School and for Anthony to be runner-up. I’m proud of both of us, and know that this is far from the end of our rivalry.’’

personally was that initially at College, as English was my passion, I was disappointed not to be placed in the English class I wanted to be in. Looking back now, this seems a little selfish and petty, but I think it gave me the desire to prove myself and to push myself to really show what I was capable of.” As 2015 Academic Head of School, Anthony Baker has certainly proved himself.

He was awarded a prestigious $50,000 University of Auckland scholarship and will undertake a music and arts degree. He is not sure what career path he will follow, but says, “I want to study something I am passionate about – you have to do what you enjoy and where your heart is.’’ Anthony Baker and Anthony Goh, Proxime Accessit, met when they were at Fendalton Primary School and have been firm friends ever

ANTHONY GOH Proxime Accessit

Anthony Goh has made the best of his time at College - academically, culturally, socially and in the sporting arena.

Anthony Goh

Anthony has achieved an impressive academic record during his time at College.

Harper Housemaster Matt Cortesi says Anthony has excelled in all facets of College life. “He is one of those students who has a great rapport with all members of the school community,’’ he says. “He dedicated himself to settling for nothing less than the best and did it all with respect, professionalism and a smile on his face.” Anthony says he was happy to be in the mix with an “amazing’’ year group of talented students and was delighted to have been named proxime accessit. “However I had a clear goal of what I wanted to achieve in my years at College,’’ he says. “For me, the most important thing was to enjoy myself both in school and out. If you convince yourself that what you are doing is enjoyable, you have fun doing your work and other activities.’’

Mr Cortesi says he was a highly intelligent student who worked hard and, as a result, was one of the top academics in his year group. He was twice awarded the Gold Tie for the top five students in his year, won a number of subject prizes and received three general excellence awards from Harper House. Over 85% of his NCEA credits have been achieved at Excellence level. Cultural activities were also one of Anthony’s strengths, Mr Cortesi says. “He helped lift the profile of debating within the school, represented the school in debating, and adjudicated for junior debates. His dry humour and ability to think quickly were entertaining to watch.’’ Anthony took part in the regional Model United Nations forums where his debating skills came to the fore. He is also an accomplished violinist.

While he played basketball and tennis for College in his junior years, it was fencing where Anthony excelled. He represented New Zealand in fencing for the last three years and gained silver and bronze medals at the Oceania level. Anthony plans a career in medicine and he will take up a $45,000 scholarship award at the University of Otago.

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College Issue 30 2016

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