The 25-year-old former Ascot man earned a VCE tertiary entrance rank of 99, gaining entry to Monash's medical school where he was awarded two Vice-Chancellor's medical travel grants and an invitation to the Monash University Chapter of the Golden Key Society.

"My years at Monash University have allowed the qualities that I first learned in Ascot, such as helping others and the pursuit of an active life, to grow and mature," said Mr Grills, who now lives in Blackburn.

He said despite the demanding nature of his medical course, he had never forgotten the importance of community.

Mr Grills has served with medical assistance programs in Third World countries, including six months in Nepal.

These experiences gave him a strong desire to apply for the Rhodes Scholar award, which will allow him to study at Oxford in 2003.

He said the opportunity to complete the course would enable him to contribute to the development and health of communities and even countries, rather than individuals.

A Monash University spokesman said while academic achievements such as the premier's award for the highest VCE biology score and a naval dux in the Australian Defence Force were first rate, his volunteer work stood him ahead of the rest.

Mr Grills is a former student of Ballarat Grammar School.