Jessica Gray
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (Jan 13/06) - Students need role models, says Sir John Franklin principal Mieke Cameron.

That's why Cameron was pleased to see Adam Hassan, the recipient of the Governor General's bronze medal, accept his award at Sir John Franklin, Jan. 3.

"Adam's achievement raises the bar and challenges other students to do what he did," Cameron said. "He's a risk-taker," she added.

Hassan received the award in recognition of maintaining an average of at least 97 per cent during his high school career. In an acceptance speech to students and teachers, Hassan urged students to make the most of their time at the school. He also gave credit to teachers for their hard work in preparing students for a post-secondary education.

When asked what it takes to make it to the top of the class, Hassan simply replied: "lots of hard work and many late nights studying."

With over $20,000 in scholarship money now in his pocket, the young man is attending the University of Alberta. Hassan is in his first year and is working towards a degree in engineering.

"I'm honoured to receive the award because only one student from the graduating class receives the award," Hassan said.

He may may have scored 99 per cent in his Physics 30 final exam, but that doesn't mean he isn't well-versed in the arts as well.

Hassan auditioned and won the chance to play the lead role in Ferris Bueller's Day Off, last year's school musical.

"Every classroom he's been a part of has improved as a result of his being there," Cameron said.