Curtin student Oxford-bound after being named 2025 Rhodes Scholar

A passion to create equitable, sustainable communities will see a Curtin University student spend the next two years at Oxford University, after being awarded one of the most prestigious scholarships in the world.

Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning (Honours) student Eden Rigo has been named 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.

Rhodes Scholars are chosen based on academic excellence, leadership potential, character and a commitment to public service, with previous winners including former world leaders Bob Hawke and Bill Clinton.

Curtin Vice-Chancellor Professor Harlene Hayne congratulated Ms Rigo on behalf of the University.

“Curtin is extremely proud of Eden’s achievements,” Professor Hayne said.

“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.”

Ms Rigo will complete her undergraduate degree in 2025, which has already seen her apply her passion for creating more equitable communities by researching land reclamation in the Maldives.

She said she was 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,” Ms Rigo said.

“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.”

Ms Rigo said she was still in shock and is honoured to be selected for a life-changing opportunity.

“Words cannot express my gratitude: I will not take this scholarship for granted,” she said.

“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.”