When she received text message notification on Monday that she had achieved 95.8, well that was even better.

Amy wasn’t just the dux of Marian College, but the recipient of the highest ATAR score in the region. 

It was fitting reward for effort and evidence of the fact that when you put your mind to something the results will show through.

Amy said studying two subjects in 2014 eased the burden as she approached her final year.

“I studied Psychology and Theatre studies in year 11 and put as much effort into those as possible so I had two good results to support me this year,” she said.

Amy excelled in Drama, Health and Human Development, English and Maths Methods. 

Year 12 wasn’t just about study for her, it was about striking the right balance. 

Amy still made time for friends and continued her association with the Ararat and District Gymnastics Club as a part-time coach. 

“You can still do whatever you want to do, you just need to prioritise,” she said. 

“You can be interested in something else and spend time doing that, but it’s also important to stay focused.” 

After some well earned down time over summer Amy plans to move to Melbourne to study primary teaching at the Australian Catholic University’s Fitzroy campus. 

Principal Carmel Barker said Amy had shown shown resilience and determination to see the year through. 

“It’s a great score and as a school we are very proud of Amy and all of the hard work she has put in,” she said.

“As a school we’re on a journey of improvement and we’re starting to see that improvement come through.”

Mrs Barker said she was very pleased with the overall results of the 2015 cohort. 

“They were a delightful group of people and the relationship they developed with their teachers contributed to their success,” she said.

“Most important is that students find their place and there are many avenues to that, we also have VCAL students who were offered apprenticeships. 

“Success is achieved by aiming for your goals and following through with them.”