ICMS Master of International Business student Sophia Hofer, from Germany, brings a unique perspective to her academic journey.
Descended from grandparents who faced displacement during World War II, Sophia’s family history instils in her a profound appreciation for the power of education to change and improve lives.
“Having to start from zero, my grandparents’ strength and willpower inspire me each day to appreciate every step of my educational journey and to never give up,” Sophia said.
“Studying here at ICMS is nothing I take for granted.”
Sophia is the first person in her family to graduate from university.
Before pursuing her postgraduate degree at ICMS in Australia, Sophia graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in 2021 from Hochschule Heilbronn – Hochschule für Technik, Wirtschaft und Informatik.
“Receiving the Innovation scholarship from ICMS is why I’m standing here today. Thank you, Ann, and thank you, ICMS, for seeing my strength and determination to bring change and innovation to the world.
“As we remember history and acknowledge all the challenges currently faced by many communities all over the world, let us also today recognise our own resilience.”
Sophia’s academic achievements show more than just her own success; they also represent progress for future generations.
Sophia has been recognised on the ICMS Dean’s List for the past two trimesters, and her dedication to academia has led to her current part-time role on faculty as an Administration Coordinator (Learning and Teaching).
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The prestigious Postgraduate Innovation Scholarship she received from ICMS recognises her strong commitment and ability to make a global impact through change and innovation.
Since its inception 13 years ago, the ICMS Professional Scholarship Program has awarded over $13million worth of scholarships. It is unique in its volume of giving and in its huge diversity and range of scholarships.
While over 90% of scholarships are funded directly by ICMS, the program is also supported by a network of industry partners who invest funds towards tuition and accommodation, and who sit on selection committees and panel interviews during the rigorous selection process.
Ann Whitelock, Chair of ICMS Professional Scholarships, emphasises the program’s commitment to diversity, expanding opportunities for students globally.
“It is a truly global scholarship program with recipients coming from countries as diverse as Australia, China, Philippines, Germany, Nepal, Vietnam, Romania, Kazakhstan, France, Sri Lanka, Rwanda, Kenya, Norway, Zimbabwe, New Zealand, Korea, Portugal, Laos, Mongolia, Mauritius, Peru, Thailand and Hong Kong, among others.
“The recipients demonstrate attributes such as high academic or extracurricular achievement and for many this scholarship award is what enables them to be here at all.
“We’re incredibly proud of them all.”
For more information about the ICMS Professional Scholarship Program, visit here.
Sophia shared her story as a speaker at the November 2023 ICMS Professional Scholarships Ceremony. To watch a livestream of the event, click here.
Master of International Business, Masters, News, Scholarships