Awards add up for John

John Ibrahim accepts his award from CPA Australia representative, Diana McGowan

A Bachelor of Business (Accounting) student has taken out Most Outstanding Second-Year Student honours in this year's Faculty of Business and Law Awards - a year after receiving the Most Outstanding First-Year Student award. The Most Outstanding Second-Year Student Award was sponsored by CPA Australia.

John Ibrahim, a mature age student, said he was delighted to follow on his first-year success with another award. "It is nice to get the recognition, as I have worked hard," he said.

John admits being mature-aged student has its advantages, giving him a focus, ambition and commitment he may not have had earlier in life. He decided to embark on an accounting degree after 10 years spent managing petrol stations with a business partner.

"Being married and having small children, I realised that I needed a career with longevity that would not be too strenuous as I got older. And I have always had a strong mathematical background: numbers interest me, as does understanding the tax system. I think that kind of knowledge is good to have for anyone interested in business and making good decisions in their career and retirement," John said.

So where does one of the School's most promising students hope to be in five to ten years' time?

"I would be happy to be working with some accounting firm, or have my own accounting firm or a small establishment with a few others." Joanne Carpenter was awarded the Matthews Steer Scholarship for Most Outstanding First Year Student.

See a full list of award winners.