Kayla Salmons (OH 2020)

Kayla Salmons (OH 2020) reflects on the incredible journey that followed her graduation, a journey made possible by a Haileybury scholarship, thanks to the generous support of her benefactor, Mr. Rob Fildes AM (OH 1958).

“It was an extraordinary experience playing college basketball in the United States. To be able to chase my dreams of high level basketball as well as obtain an education was such a privilege that I’m so grateful to have had. Being able to experience a completely different culture and style of schooling was such a surreal experience that I will carry with me forever.

Haileybury has helped to shape me into the person I am today. My drive to succeed and be the best at anything I do was thanks to the environment and support system at Haileybury. Not only did Haileybury help me achieve my goals while in Australia but also helped me with my education while overseas, allowing me to be both on the honour roll and the dean’s list, respectively for my grades.

Right now, I’m back home continuing my education at The University of Melbourne, where I am completing a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Psychology, once I graduate, I plan to continue my education and complete my Juris Doctor. Currently in the basketball setting, I am playing semi-professionally in the NBL1 league for Eltham Wildcats, which has been an incredible experience where I have learnt and improved so much.

My future aspirations are to continue playing basketball for as long as I physically can and to also complete my education and move into either criminal law or corporate law as a career.

I just want to thank Haileybury and Rob Fildes for the opportunity of a lifetime. I don’t believe I would be half as successful or half the person that I am today without the privilege of attending and obtaining my education from Haileybury. I am forever grateful to Rob and the Haileybury community for everything they have done for me”.

We look forward to catching up with you again, Kayla, at your Class of 2020 5-Year Reunion next year!