Snehal Maram

Kia Ora Koutou! My name is Snehal Maram, an aspiring doctor studying the Bachelor of Science/Doctor of Medicine double degree at the University of Sydney. Originally from Wellington, New Zealand and a graduate of Wellington College, moving abroad has broadened my perspective and opened my eyes to the world around, strengthening my ambition to contribute meaningfully to research and innovation across multiple academic disciplines.

I am driven by a deep curiosity and a willingness to embrace challenge, whether in academics, leadership, or personal growth. Outside of study, I enjoy hiking, swimming, exploring new ideas, and cooking diverse cuisines, experiences that continually remind me of the values I hold dear: growth, integrity, and exploration.

Academically, I was honoured to be named one of two Conjoined Duxes of Wellington College, only the second occurrence in the College’s 159-year history, and achieved top results in Level 3 English and Health. I was also recognised as an NZQA Outstanding Scholar, earning seven scholarships (six Scholarships and one Outstanding Scholarship), placing me among 57 students nationwide in 2025. In addition, I also achieved a prestigious ATAR of 99.95, placing me in the top 30 NCEA students nationally in the L3 cohort! Through these academic accolades, I am extremely grateful to have been the recipient of the Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship's at both the University of Auckland & Otago, and also the Chancellor's Award at my current university, University of Sydney. Additionally, I have achieved strong results in competitions including the Australian Mathematics Competition and the NZ Physics and Mathematics Competition.

Beyond academics, I've competed at the NZ Secondary Schools Ultimate Frisbee Championships and represented my region in Table Tennis for three consecutive years, experiences that strengthened my resilience and competitive spirit. I also love to play tennis socially!

Leadership has been a defining pillar of my journey. As the 2025 Wellington District Cadet of the Year, I worked alongside senior leadership to coordinate and deliver youth events across the region, spearheading initiatives that strengthened engagement and participation. I also served as a youth advisor for Students Against Dangerous Driving (SADD) on the Wellington AA Council, contributing youth perspectives to regional road safety discussions. In addition, serving as ambassador to the school for SVA and UN Youth NZ helped me too learn to lead and represent through different styles and needs. I further developed my advocacy skills through debating, representing New Zealand at Australia’s UN Youth National Conference, participating in high-level Model UN forums, and competing regularly in regional debating competitions.

Through the Hyundai Pinnacle Programme, I hope to further refine my leadership, collaborate with driven peers, and contribute to initiatives that create lasting impact both within STEM and beyond.