Year 12 was tough, to say the least. Between studying for hours at a time and worrying about getting into your degree, it often felt like the end was constantly out of reach. As soon as you finished one exam block, another would be waiting just a few weeks ahead.

It was in those trying times that I needed a motivator.

Despite the unwarranted amount of loathing towards teachers in junior years, in year twelve, your teachers become the motivators you need. After all, teachers want their students to do well at the end of the day, and during HSC year, they become the cheerleaders to your quarterbacks, the soccer mums to your little league soccer team, and well, the teacher to your student.

Remember that you can rely on your teachers. Even if you send an essay to be marked at 2am the night before, most will try to get it back to you before the exam. They are also helpful in offering degree and career advice. For example, it was thanks to my history teacher that I have a somewhat clear idea of my degree and career path. Even at times of emotional instability, teachers are usually open to talking about stress and often try rectify those HSC anxiety-related issues.

On top of this, having a clear end goal for the HSC is a huge motivator. At the start of Year 12, I knew I wanted to do a Bachelor of Psychology at UNSW to eventually pursue a career in forensic psychology. However, UNSW had raised the entry requirements for the degree. Rather than becoming demotivated, I studied even harder to earn the marks I needed, and although there were a lot of bumps and many periods of self-doubt on the way, I continued pushing through. When I finally received my offer, I felt the weight lift off my shoulders, and realised all the blood, sweat, and tears – was worth it.

Find your motivator and it’ll make your HSC journey much easier!