Annabelle Khoo
Ambitions
I intend to commence study at a tertiary level in Semester 1 of 2021. I am considering a few options: a Bachelor of Biomedical Science; a Double Bachelor of Science and Law; or a Bachelor of Music majoring in Classical Voice at the Queensland Conservatorium.
Depending on where my tertiary studies take me, I would love to either:
- Graduate university with a law and medicine degree as my interests cover both of these areas. Whatever happens, I would love to use whatever tertiary experience and studies I have to do humanitarian work—specifically, to help women in developing countries.
- Pursue a career in professional operatic performance. I am very passionate about the power of performance and art, and am especially transfixed with the voice as a medium of expression. I love music very much and am very interested in it. No matter what I do, music will always be a significant influence in my life and will most likely be what I spend most of my free time doing.
I’d feel very fulfilled and happy in either career. Having two careers would be nice … but that might be a bit too ambitious.
What have been the bright spots and the challenges that you’ve experienced during 2020?
Some bright spots have definitely been my choral and singing experiences. Although it’s been very different this year, I have truly found healing in losing myself in music. There were times this year where I was doing five one-hour choir Zoom sessions per week! It provided an opportunity for great online workshops, performing in creative digital showcases, and doing some interesting weekly challenges. I also prepared for and submitted a Grade 8 Trinity College exam for Classical Voice during remote learning. I had voice lessons over Zoom and did lots of organising over text message, but eventually put together a submission of five pieces for the exam. It was a very novel experience, and it improved my confidence and independence. To receive a High Distinction and full marks on that exam a few weeks later was amazing. I’m very grateful for my voice teacher, Ms Utley, and my accompanist, Ms Sanders.
Some challenges I faced this year was definitely being away from school. Being absent and learning online made me realise how much I treasure my friends and teachers. It was very hard to not laugh with, hug, and even see my friends for such a long time. Not seeing my teachers, but observing how hard they were trying to ensure we weren’t struggling, was also eye-opening. I am so grateful for my teachers—they are incredible.
What did you learn about yourself, your peers, teachers and parents during the year and how did these relationships change?
As discussed above, I learned that I have a lot of support systems and people who care about my happiness. Despite not seeing everyone as much, I think these relationships have prospered this year. I am also generally a more grateful person.
What personal achievement are you most proud of? It could be anything—small or big.
I am proud that I have made it to the end of this year a prouder, happier, and more hopeful person. I’ve genuinely never felt more content in my life.
Do you have a passion for a particular area that you’ve further developed during school? If so, why and what have you achieved?
I won an annual vocal trio competition with two of my incredibly talented, musical, and dedicated friends. I was the Arts Captain this year, and hosted a very successful ‘Virtual Arts Fest’ that involved showcasing talented artists from all Year levels in an online setting (pre-recorded performances, live streamed events, electronic submissions for competitions, debut screenings of past school productions). I was also Choral Captain, and although I largely attribute this to all the choristers, I think I helped create an optimistic and enthusiastic environment.
How did your parents/carers support you during 2020?
My parents supported me incredibly well. They strive to foster such a comfortable and happy environment for me to study in. They also support me in all my endeavors and want only the best for me. They put my mental health first and look after me above all else. My mum and dad are incredible people who I respect and cherish. They are my best friends.
Do you have any advice for the Year 12s in 2021?
Sometimes you might find yourself counting and wishing the days away. My advice to you all is: live in the present. It’s easier said than done, but try to just focus on today. It got me through this year, but it also left me with some laughs and incredible experiences along the way. You’re living in a memory right now—fill it with love and life.
Arwen Dias-Jayasinha
Ambitions
I plan to study the Bachelor of Design (Interior Architecture)—International course next year at Queensland University of Technology. In the longer term, I aspire to become a professional interior designer and one day start my own firm.
What have been the bright spots and the challenges that you’ve experienced during 2020?
There have been many bright spots and challenges. An absolute highlight for me this year was being one of Girls Grammar’s Head Girls.
The uncertainty of the pandemic has made this year quite disjointed, however, the initiatives that we were able to hold at school were absolutely incredible and were even more special because of the different school calendar. Another highlight of mine was coming to school on the first day back after remote learning. Although learning at home fortunately did not affect me much, finally being able to see my friends and teachers made that day one of the happiest days of my life. I will never forget the thrill and joy I felt leaping into my friends’ arms and talking face-to-face rather than joining a meeting online.
What did you learn about yourself, your peers, teachers and parents during the year and how did these relationships change?
Something that I have learned about not only myself but my peers, teachers, and parents, is that we are more resilient and adaptable than we think. This year, everyone has had to adapt in some way, whether it be remote learning for a period of time, working from home, or doing grocery shopping online.
My friends and I maintained our close connections by contacting each other at lunchtimes or after school. My teachers also checked in on everyone in our Zoom classes. Additionally, I think I have grown even closer to my parents and this year has made me realise how family-oriented I am.
What personal achievement are you most proud of? It could be anything—small or big.
A personal achievement that I am most proud of is earning the Queen’s Scout Award in Venturer Scouts. The Queen’s Scout Award is the highest award in the Venturer Scout section and involves the completion of all 13 Venturer Award activities, as well as four Queen’s Scout Award activities from each area (Leadership Development, Outdoors Activities, Personal Growth, and Community Involvement). I have slowly completed the award over the course of the three years I have been a Venturer Scout, so I am delighted that I could finally reach that goal this year.
Do you have a passion for a particular area e.g. music, community service, sport, solving problems, business creation, that you’ve further developed during school? If so, why and what have you achieved?
I have found a real love for giving back to the community and leading from being part of the Scouting community for eight years. As you progress through Scouting, opportunities to lead become more accessible and the leadership challenge becomes more complex. I find so much joy and fulfilment in leading activities such as hikes and seeing people overcome their mental or physical barriers and reach the end goal with perseverance, grit, and a sense of self-achievement. Throughout my eight years of scouting, I have been in many leadership positions such as Patrol Leader in Scouts, Unit Chairperson in Venturers, Youth Leader at a badge-earning camp, Camp LUII, and more recently, have been involved in starting up my Scout Group’s first Joey Unit (ages five to eight) and will eventually become a Joey Youth Helper.
Another passion of mine is music. Since Year 7, I have been heavily involved in the BGGS Instrumental Music Program, playing percussion and bass guitar in the School’s ensembles. Performances and weekly rehearsals have given me confidence and enabled me to develop my abilities. I find great satisfaction in both listening to and playing music, so I plan to continue musical activity after school by joining a community band.
How did your parents/carers support you during 2020?
My parents supported me in every way they could this year. From driving me to and from rehearsals, helping me edit a speech at night, and creating a space at home in which I could concentrate on remote learning without distraction or discomfort, they were there for me. They always provided emotional support when I needed to unwind.
What would you like to say to your parents/carers? Teachers?
I am so grateful for both my parents and teachers this year. They have supported me so much throughout the year—not only through remote learning. I want to thank my teachers for the countless hours of work and effort they put in to provide quality learning resources, as well as managing the transition in and out of remote learning seamlessly, really making the year seem as ‘normal’ as it could be. I never realised how much behind-the-scenes work went into being a teacher, but I definitely have a deeper appreciation for everything they do to support our education. For my parents, I have nothing but love and gratitude. Throughout this entire year, along with caring and providing for me, they have offered support when I needed it most and have been a crucial part of me getting through Year 12.
Do you have any advice for the Year 12s in 2021?
A piece of advice I would like to give the Years 12 students in 2021 is that it is OK to be not OK. Year 12 can be quite stressful at points, especially around assessment period, so do not be afraid to ask for help or take a quiet break from busy school life. Your mental condition should be just as healthy as your physical condition, and you should spend your final year at high school happy, fit, and thriving.
Eva Seet
Ambitions
I want to undertake a Flexible Double Degree in Engineering (R&D) and Science at the Australian National University, and I hope to eventually major in Biomedical Systems. This year I have volunteered my time as a PlayerMentor for the Modified Rugby Program (MRP). Moving into next year, I have been offered a coaching position for an MRP club in Canberra. I also hope to continue as an adjudicator for Debating whether that be for the Queensland Debating Union—a role I currently fill—or interstate.
A very prevalent part of my life has been helping others, and I have always aspired to have a career would enable me help those around me. I’m not entirely certain on what career I want to pursue once I have finished my degree, but my hope is to eventually study Biomedical Engineering, and I believe that studying my selected program will allow me, through research and developing innovative solutions, to create change and have a positive impact on society.
What have been the bright spots and the challenges that you’ve experienced during 2020?
As one of BGGS’ Service Captains, one of the most important decisions my co-captain and I had to make was selecting a school charity to support and raise funds for. We decided on Rural Aid, and we wanted the students to be very involved and hands-on with their projects. Unfortunately, due to travel restrictions, we were unable to participate in face-to-face activities. During home learning, I heard about the Rural Aid ‘Dear Farmer’ initiative, where children wrote letters to thank Aussie Farmers. I was inspired by this to help create the ‘Notes of Hope’ initiative at my school, sending letters to those who needed the most support during lockdown. In the end, approximately 500 letters were sent out to Aussie farmers (through Rural Aid), residents in aged care homes, and frontline medical workers at hospitals. This was done through the participation of more than 150 students who helped write and design the cards. The ‘brightest spot’ so far has definitely been seeing the recipients’ reactions to the ‘Notes of Hope’—we received multiple thank you cards, including a photo of one of the residents of an aged care facility holding up a ‘Bee Positive’ card with a drawing of a Bee on the front! Being able to see my idea being carried out and fulfilling its intended purpose was truly heartwarming.
What did you learn about yourself, your peers, teachers and parents during the year and how did these relationships change?
Earlier this year, one of my teachers sent me a research article on the examination of students’ perceptions of success, in high-performing schools. One of the most fascinating conclusions was that students who were connected to something beyond themselves—such as giving back to the community—and those that had a sense of ‘purpose’ in someone else’s life and not just their own, tended to find more fulfilment in whatever they were doing. Reflecting upon my own journey, I realised that this rung true for me, and that it was something I wanted to keep with me in the future. Whether it be helping to sort through donation drive items, buttering bread for the Ecumenical Coffee Brigade, or assisting the players in the Modified Rugby Program, I feel tremendously happy.
What personal achievement are you most proud of? It could be anything—small or big.
In primary school, I was very shy. However, in Year 6, I made a decision to join the debating team at school, to improve my confidence and public speaking. At the time, it was one of the most nerve-wracking things I had ever done, but I am extremely glad I decided to continue with it. Throughout the years, I have competed in multiple Queensland debating competitions, and the Australian Individual Debating and Public Speaking Competition. I am now also an accredited adjudicator for Queensland Debating Union, and have coached Year 7 debating teams at school. My proudest memories from this year include watching my Year 7 team debate against other schools, using the feedback from our training sessions.
Do you have a passion for a particular area e.g. music, community service, sport, solving problems, business creation, that you’ve further developed during school? If so, why and what have you achieved?
One of my biggest passions is music. This year is my eighth year of playing clarinet. Throughout the years, I have always been a part of the school bands and orchestra, being in Symphonic Winds for four years, and Symphony Orchestra, for three years. From 2017 onwards, I was a member of Queensland Youth Orchestra’s (QYO) Wind Ensemble, and competed in the 2019 Yamaha National Band Championships, placing first in our division. Last year, I auditioned for QYO’s Wind Symphony, and was offered a spot for this year. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, we were unable to rehearse for a large portion of Term 2. During this time, I realised what a big impact music had had on my life and was inspired to initiate a ‘Gift of Music’ Concert Video at school, involving more than 30 talented musicians at our school. After I edited together the video, it was sent off to Rural Aid, Aged Care Facilities, and Homelessness Shelters.
How did your parents/carers support you during 2020?
My mum has always been my number one supporter. She attends every event and co-curricular activity I am a part of, and 2020 was no different. My mum still managed to attend every debate, every Modified Rugby game, and every concert unfailingly. My mum helps me brainstorm ideas, insists on making me home-packed lunches, and listens to all my concerns. No matter how early or late my rehearsals start or end, no matter how far we have to drive, or even if my mum has to attend the event live-streamed, she has been there every step of the way, always just as involved as me.
What would you like to say to your parents/carers? Teachers?
To my amazing mum, thank you for always encouraging me to participate in co-curricular activities to the fullest extent and being there with me every step of the way. Thank you for raising me to have a moral value system. Even though I may not always show it, words cannot express how deeply grateful I am for everything you’ve done for me.
To all my wonderful teachers: thank you for all the work you do each and every day to make sure we are receiving the best quality of education possible. Thank you for going above and beyond to make sure we are engaged and that we enjoy learning new content in class. Thank you for being our ‘school parents’. Thank you for following your vocation and becoming a teacher—you shape the minds of students each and every day and that is amazing!
Do you have any advice for the Year 12s in 2021?
Take every opportunity that comes your way to get involved, whether that be in school or in the wider community. Always remember that it’s never too late to start learning something new. Don’t be afraid to have ideas, and don’t be afraid to act on your ideas. It’s okay if you fail, that’s just one of the stepping stones of life. In fact, learn to love failing, because by failing, you learn something new. And finally, as my Year 7 English teacher told me, life is about more than just your grades. Good luck, and remember to enjoy every moment of Year 12!
Matina Samios
Ambitions
After Year 12, I intend to study a science-based degree at university as soon as possible to satisfy my keenness for STEM. While doing this, I hope to secure a medical-related part-time job—perhaps as a theatre orderly or a first aid assistant at junior sporting events. I’m also hoping to become more involved in my community: volunteering at my Greek Orthodox Youth Association; and supporting childcare and nursing systems in my community.
Combining my passions for STEM and caring for others, I aspire to bridge the gap between science discovery and clinical practice, leading the search for the next health advancement through translational research. Studying Biomedical Science and Medicine, I hope to gain the skills to revolutionise current medicine through digital innovation.
What have been the bright spots and the challenges that you’ve experienced during 2020?
As a strong believer in ‘growing through life’, I tried to embrace every challenge as a new opportunity for personal improvement. At the beginning of the year, I found it particularly hard to see the bright side: my favourite sports, and the chance to represent my school for the last time were cancelled; rites of passage like the formal were postponed; social interactions were confined to a computer screen. As a House Captain, it was more difficult to connect and engage my fellow House members over Zoom calls, especially our Year 7 girls who had barely finished their first term of secondary school. But through the year’s darkness, bright spots shone, and it was facing these challenges that made me so grateful for even the small successes that followed. Coming back from remote learning, it was so warming to see everyone around me so thankful and fortunate to be around each other again. Time has flown since we’ve been back: we’re getting back into sport, we had a beautiful formal and I turned 18!
What did you learn about yourself, your peers, teachers and parents during the year and how did these relationships change?
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been a ‘people person’, but it wasn’t until I was forced to stay home for six weeks that I truly realised how much I need human interaction in my day-to-day life. Being alone, I was proud of my independence and my motivation to keep working even when everything was a bit uncertain. For me, remote learning helped put everything else into perspective, and I think that tackling this unique obstacle, especially as a Year 12 student, boosted my confidence in approaching any new challenge: if I can not only survive, but thrive in Year 12 during a global pandemic, surely I can do anything! Being at home, I also had a lot of time to reflect and consider the impact my teachers, friends, and family have on my life. Having this time away from my usual hustle and bustle made coming back together that much sweeter, and made my relationships stronger than ever before.
What personal achievement are you most proud of? It could be anything—small or big.
As a member of my school’s Student Council, one of my goals as a leader for 2020 was to strengthen the bonds between students not only within their own Year level, but also between students in differing Year levels. During remote learning, we expanded our pre-existing ‘Passion Series’—a warming initiative intended to empower girls to share their talents—to an online platform where girls could share videos of their skills and interests for the whole school community. From song-writing, to baking and calligraphy, we were inundated with video entries from girls of all ages. It was also particularly moving to read the supportive comments, and it allowed us to become more connected and appreciative of the amazing girls around us.
Do you have a passion for a particular area e.g. music, community service, sport, solving problems, business creation, that you’ve further developed during school? If so, why and what have you achieved?
For as long as I can remember, I have always had a passion for science. Whether it be physics, chemistry, biology or less explored yet still compelling subjects like forensics, geology, astronomy and beyond, I have always been enthralled by science’s complexity yet simplicity, and enormity. I always try to participate in as many STEM forums, workshops and any opportunity that comes my way. Over the past few years, my passion for STEM has grown in our supportive and equally passionate school environment, providing me with many opportunities to further foster, challenge and extend my knowledge and capabilities. I was extremely honoured to have been selected from Physics students across Australia to attend Australian Science Innovations’ annual national Physics Olympiad Summer School held in January 2020. Taking part in such a competition was an enjoyable experience as it not only reaffirmed my prior knowledge, but also allowed me to explore more abstract physics topics.
How did your parents/carers support you during 2020?
As a single mother, my mum has always been an inspiration and role model for me, and in 2020, I have come to realise the significant impact my mum has had on my life. Although she works full time, she always finds the time to be with me and my brothers and I can honestly say there is nothing I had to go through alone. My mum helped me find balance in my busy Year 12 life, always making sure I gave myself ‘down time’ between study sessions. Whether it be early morning walks or tea in the afternoon, my mum was always there to help feel relaxed this year!
What would you like to say to your parents/carers? Teachers?
To my amazing mum, I don’t think you know how grateful I am to have such a strong female influence in my life, showing me what it means to be self-sufficient, and always being my greatest example. I don’t think I could do it all without my mum keeping me sane and supporting me along the way.
It’s easy to forget what a big role teachers play in our lives, and I think our period of lockdown rightly opened my eyes to this. To my incredible teachers—who not only care about our academic achievements, but our wellbeing—thank you for your continued support. We are all so grateful for your organisation and tireless work done behind the scenes to ensure we had the most seamless transitions during our last year of schooling.
Do you have any advice for the Year 12s in 2021?
If 2020 has taught us anything, it’s that we have the power to do anything we set our minds to—not even a global pandemic could stop us from graduating! My advice to Year 12 students in 2021 would be to push your limits and give everything your all. Make the most of every opportunity you are given but always reflect on how lucky we are, because you never truly know how much something means to you until it’s gone. Find your motivation and your inspiration, because once you do, it’s so much easier to drive all the way to the end.
Sophie Martin
Ambitions
I hope to study a Bachelor/Master’s degree in Engineering majoring in Chemical and Environmental Engineering at The University of Queensland next year. I hope to use my Engineering degree to make meaningful change in the world of environmental protection, helping preserve our planet by manufacturing eco-friendly products, reducing waterway pollution or finding innovative ways to reduce and dispose of waste in our daily lives. I also want to work abroad and embrace other cultures while I pursue my career goals.
What have been the bright spots and the challenges that you’ve experienced during 2020?
The best part of 2020 has been the incredible growth in my friendships through the challenges we have faced. One of the best days was the day when the Year 12 students came back from remote learning and we were all able to see each other for the first time in months. The camaraderie and positive energy buzzing around school was unforgettable.
The most challenging part of 2020 for me was remote learning. The lack of contact with friends, teachers and loved ones was a big challenge, but I think it gave me a greater appreciation for all the experiences I have had and the memories I have now made with my friends.
What did you learn about yourself, your peers, teachers and parents during the year and how did these relationships change?
I learned a lot about myself this year. I learned that I need social interaction—my friends are my support system and I love the family I have built over my years at school. I have no doubts that my chosen ‘school family’ will become a critical part of my life to come. I learned a lot about my teachers—all my teachers have incredible stories that have influenced me and shaped my perspectives.
What personal achievement are you most proud of? It could be anything—small or big.
During remote learning I ran every afternoon as a way to cure my boredom from being inside all day, and by the end of those few months I was able to run 20km—a distance that seemed impossible to me at the start. The consistency and determination that I developed through this simple act of running every afternoon was a big accomplishment for me this year.
Do you have a passion for a particular area e.g. music, community service, sport, solving problems, business creation, that you’ve further developed during school? If so, why and what have you achieved?
I have developed a passion for community service during my time at school, specifically due to my work with the Modified Rugby Program (MRP). The MRP gives children and young adults with learning and perceptual disabilities the opportunity to play a modified form of touch rugby with the guidance of volunteer player mentors and coaches. I began my journey with the MRP as a player mentor in Year 10 for my compulsory 20 hours of community service. During that first season I discovered the power of giving back to the community. This power not only comes from the help I gave to the players but the gratitude and joy I gained.
I continued my volunteer work with the MRP in 2019 and 2020 albeit with a slightly modified season this year. It has been the most impactful and important thing I have done during my time at school. This year I was lucky enough to be an Advanced Player Mentor and gained more insight into the work that goes on behind the scenes to make the program run smoothly. I hope to continue my work with the MRP while I am in university as an assistant coach or coach, and continue to help improve the lives of children and young adults with learning and perceptual disabilities.
How did your parents/carers support you during 2020?
My parents have always been there for me to support me through any struggles I have had this year. I could not have made it through this year without their support and guidance. I am so lucky to have parents that care for me so much.
What would you like to say to your parents/carers? Teachers?
I would like to thank my parents for all they have done for me this year. I would also like to thank my teachers for the tireless hours of work they have put in over this year—especially during remote learning–to ensure that our Year 12 experience was as smooth and positive as possible. My teachers have guided me through so much this year, and they deserve so much gratitude for their often unnoticed, but crucial work. Even if it’s just talking about our day or giving us lollypops at the end of a hard week, my teachers have always been there for me.
Do you have any advice for the Year 12s in 2021?
My main piece of advice is to enjoy it, make memories and have fun. While it is incredibly important to try hard, do well and set yourself up for a successful future, it is just as important to spend time with your friends and look after yourself. I would also encourage all current Year 12 students to pick a way to document next year; whether it be the classic disposable camera, or even writing letters to yourself. Next year will be tough, but it will also be so memorable and fun.
