To me, the opportunity is the chance to grow and develop as a person, and to be open to the influx of knowledge to align one’s self with the ultimate goal of achieving greatness. Being granted an opportunity like an Aquinas Scholarship does not automatically grant you success; you have to be able to make the sacrifices that the majority aren’t willing to do so that opportunities can be nourished to make a real difference in not only your own life but in the lives of others.
Jonas Aranda (’13)

  • 2009 – 2013
  • A.B. in Physics from Harvard University

Jonas came to Aquinas in Year 8 and was the first person in his family to attend the College. Following consistently high academic results between Years 8 and 10, Jonas was awarded the Terry Bourke Family Scholarship for Years 11 and 12. In addition to his academic prowess, Jonas also excelled in the athletics arena. In his final year at Aquinas, as Redmond House Captain, Jonas scooped the pool at the PSA Athletics Carnival, winning the 1500m, 400m, 800m and 4x400m races.

Following graduation from Aquinas, Jonas moved to the US on a scholarship to Harvard University to study Physics, graduating in May 2018. Throughout his four collegiate years, he also competed in the middle distance events (800m and mile) for the Harvard University Track and Field Program, travelling around the US and internationally. Following graduation from Harvard, Jonas moved to New York City for work and is currently a data scientist with Misfits Market.