How biomedicine student Rhian went from adversity to Harvard University

With the support of VU’s dedicated staff, Rhian Stavely rose from disappointing VCE results to earning a PhD at VU focusing on stem cell therapies for bowel disease: kicking off a career that would eventually see him become a Harvard University researcher. 

"I grew up in Westmeadows with my hard-working mother and three siblings who all encouraged my curiosity and desire for education. My Year 12 results were meagre, but VU offered me a chance to succeed. I’m testament to VU’s philosophy that Year 12 scores do not define your talent – when a student finds their niche and interest they can excel."