Reaching the finish line – “We all understood each other’s struggles”

One of the most difficult “assignments” in Year 12 is keeping study in perspective – it’s important, but there are other things in life that override a number. 

That was Andrew Worsfold’s challenge, and he tackled it mostly by turning to friends and teachers, and listening to his own intuition. 

“The biggest problem was the quantity of work, feeling overwhelmed, lacking energy and motivation after weeks of study leading up to exams, knowing I was so close to being done,” he said. 

“I overcame this by reminding myself that in only five days it would all be over so I had to just apply myself to the best of my ability until then. 

“Additionally, remembering all the hard work I had done in the past reinforced my motivation to finish strong and not let myself down. 

“I had some mental health concerns in the middle of the final exams, but the School’s counselling program and my friends really helped me through that. 

“We were all going through the same process and therefore understood each other’s struggles.” 

He said it was important for students to put in their best effort. 

“But remember the HSC is not your whole life and it is extremely important to have other things to focus on. 

“It is important to have somewhat of a break between trials and finals. 

“If you already are confident with all the content, a week or so off ensures that you don’t burn out during the final exams. 

“It’s not possible to maintain intensive studying for that entire time period. 

“The October holidays are definitely a time to study hard, but between trials and graduation is a good opportunity to relax for a bit. 

“Many other things in my life mean much more than a number. 

“Getting into your preferred course is important, but there are other pathways to what you want.” 

His co-curricular activities included the symphonic wind band and Duke of Edinburgh Awards, but his favourite was Marching Band, particularly taking part in ANZAC Day commemorations in the city. 

He enjoyed his time at the Field Studies Centre at Woollamia, and was proudest of the “consistent effort I put into learning and studying”. 

He had a part-time job at McDonald’s, and unwound by playing Cricket and Football with friends. 

He thanked his teachers and parents for supporting him and encouraging him to “apply myself fully”. 

“The staff always worked their hardest to ensure we were well prepared for the final exams.” 

He plans to take a gap year working in the ski industry before commencing university studies in environmental or mechanical engineering.