Local legend’s legacy continues with new scholarship

A desire to save lives spurred first-year student Ray Wang to enrol in a Bachelor of Science specialising in biomedical science. His interest in a career in medicine began when two close family members were diagnosed with cancer, with one tragically passing away and the other surviving through successful treatment. It showed him the power of medicine and the possibilities it can provide.

“It’s really inspirational to me, surgeons being able to save lives,” he says. “It’s amazing.”

Biomedical science is one of two pathways into the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, which Ray hopes to qualify for, though he is also interested in optometry and medical imaging. His long-term goal is to contribute to the healthcare industry and make a difference to people’s lives.

“I like to help others. In high school I did quite a lot of mentor programmes, where you work with other students and help them,” he says. He plans to continue this act of service throughout his studies, applying values of “hard work, respecting others, and trying to use opportunities to improve myself, but also to benefit others”.

Ray is one of four inaugural recipients of the Geoff Ricketts Heartland Bank scholarship, which was established in 2024 in memory of the late Geoff Ricketts, CNZM. Geoff was a co-founder and director of Heartland Bank, a generous philanthropist and an alumnus of the University’s Law School. He became Chair of the University of Auckland Foundation when it was established in 2000 and held the position until he died in 2023. The scholarship is funded by Heartland Bank and supports first-year undergraduates studying business and economics, law or medical and health sciences.

Emi O’Connor is another inaugural scholarshiprecipient, studying a Bachelor of Commerceand Bachelor of Science conjoint, specialising in information systems and statistics. Born and raised in Japan, she moved to Palmerston North when she was in primary school. She credits her upbringing for giving her an appreciation for different ways of life.

“Growing up in a bicultural family helped me become more resilient. I really value being open to many different cultures.”

This interest in multiculturalism fuelled a passion for solving real-world problems impacting those less fortunate.

“I’m passionate about giving back to developing countries. Learning about statistics and information systems will help me pursue that; data tells you a lot about the world, and my ultimate goal is to help businesses make better decisions ethically. Statistics supports this, because it identifies exactly what the problems are, so you can establish solutions theoretically and also practically.”

During high school, Emi completed her Gold Duke of Edinburgh, through which she attended the 2024 Rotary Science Technology Forum, organised by the University of Auckland. There she met former senior lecturer Dr Michelle Dickinson – better known as Nanogirl – who solidified her decision to pursue science as well as business.

“She’s incredibly inspiring. She goes around schools in lower-decile areas, exposes students to STEM and helps people break down diversity barriers. I’m really happy there is someone like her encouraging people to get into under-represented fields.”

When she isn’t studying, Emi is busy outdoors hiking, long-distance running and immersing herself in nature. She has also volunteered part time in the SPCA’s animal centre for the past three years, which she plans to continue, thanks to the scholarship’s support.

“I’m very grateful to the Ricketts family and Heartland Bank. It’s really motivating and encouraging knowing there are people and corporations supporting you and believing in your potential. Receiving the scholarship will significantly alleviate my student loan and allow me to continue giving back to my community.”

Philanthropy also fosters a cycle of giving, says Emi, who hopes to one day offer support to people like herself, if she is in a position to do so.

Ray shares Emi’s gratitude and was “speechless” when he learned he had been awarded the scholarship. He is confident it will be instrumental to the years of gruelling study ahead.

“I am deeply honoured to receive this scholarship, made possible by the legacy of Geoff Ricketts and Heartland Bank. It will greatly reduce my financial burden and stress, allowing me to spend my time working hard to achieve the best grades I can get.”

Like Emi, he is new to Auckland, having moved from Wellington specifically to study. He is excited to explore Aotearoa’s biggest city, live in the student halls, build new connections and continue his ongoing hobby of badminton – all while making his mark on the medical world. Throughout, he intends to follow a piece of advice that has guided him over the course of his life.

“Success is the result of consistent effort, so keep moving forward, no matter what.”