Hi guys, I’m Andrea! I moved to Melbourne in 2015 from Albury, a small town on the NSW side of the border between NSW and Victoria.

I believe that students who complete VCE have a significant advantage over those who complete HSC. Most Victorian schools allow students to complete one or two 3/4s in Year 11. However, if you wish to complete the equivalent of a 3/4 in Year 11 while studying in NSW, you have to apply for special consideration; most people just do six subjects in Year 12. I have not shared this fact with you to dampen your stress about doing well in your 3/4s, but to encourage you to make the most of your time, time that most HSC students do not have.

Nonetheless, making the most of your time does not translate to studying 24/7, it is seeking help when you need help, organising your time efficiently and keeping yourself motivated. Your desire of gaining entry into your dream course should not outweigh the importance of taking breaks and doing things you love with those closest to you. I found that this was possible with the guidance of those experienced with VCE so I hope I can be the Captain Holt to your Jake Peralta.

Andrea graduated from Haileybury Girls College in 2017 and is now studying the Monash MD whilst getting involved in varioius music-related extracurricular activities. Her friends believe her natural affinity for languages make her well suited to a profession that calls for upon a high level of communication skills.