[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/Mitchell.jpg” caption=”Derek Mitchell”]Derek Mitchell admits he does study more than most. But the key to academic success, says the 2000 winner of the Governor General's Academic Medal, is to keep up to date with assignments and stay organized.

The fourth-year honours computer science student received the award at the Faculty of Science Convocation on June 1. His average translates into marks of almost 100 per cent, giving him the highest marks of all graduating students in the undergraduate program.

It's a very great honour,” the 23-year-old says.

The Burlington resident also received a Governor General's medal in high school, at his graduation from Burlington Central High School.

After taking some time off in May to tour the Canadian Rockies, Mitchell starts work next week as a consultant at Montage IT in Mississauga.

Despite his academic achievements, he sometimes closes the books and picks up a guitar to play in an Oasis tribute band. He also enjoys playing basketball and baseball.