A Curtin University student’s passion for creating equitable, sustainable communities will see her spend the next two years at Oxford University in the United Kingdom after being awarded one of the world’s most prestigious scholarships.
Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning (Honours) student Eden Rigo is the 2025 Rhodes Scholar for Western Australia, which will see her undertake a Master of Philosophy in Development Studies at the UK’s oldest university.
Academic excellence, character, leadership potential and a commitment to public service all play a key part in the selection process, with previous winners including former world leaders Bob Hawke and Bill Clinton.
“Curtin is extremely proud of Eden’s achievements,” says Curtin Vice-Chancellor Professor Harlene Hayne.
“Eden is a truly worthy recipient of the Rhodes Scholarship, and this latest accolade adds to her already
growing list of impressive accomplishments, including being a recipient of a Don Watts High Achiever
Scholarship, being named in the Vice-Chancellor’s List and as a New Colombo Plan Program alumna.
“We wish her the very best for her studies at Oxford University.”
Rigo will complete her undergraduate degree in 2025 and says she is excited for the opportunity to build on her current knowledge and skillset by focusing on economics and social anthropology to learn more about how many of the global challenges we face today originated.
“The challenging academic environment at Oxford will help me understand why development is often
unequal between wealthy, industrialised countries and developing nations,” says Rigo.
“With access to research and policy insights, I’ll be prepared to work on development projects in different
communities and learn skills which are crucial for solving complex global issues.”
Shock and gratitude
With the news that she has been selected for this life-changing opportunity leaving her feeling shocked, Rigo says that “words cannot express” her gratitude.
“I will not take this scholarship for granted,” she says.
“I aim to learn as much as I can and be involved in as many extracurricular activities as I can fit in so
make the most of this incredible educational experience and make a meaningful impact in my career.
“I want to say a huge thank you to Curtin University, the Curtin School of Design and Built Environment,
the amazing Faculty, my references Dr Francesca Perugia, Jake Schapper and Dr Courtney Babb, as
well as Curtin’s Scholarships team – I have truly had the best undergraduate experience here.”
