The QCE Achievement Award winners for 2023 share their inspiration, goals for the future and advice to current students.
Their stories are shared with permission
Joshua Ryu — Brisbane State High School
I want to work in STEM to help improve people’s lives in a meaningful way.
Career goal
To work in medicine, eventually establishing or working for a not-for-profit organisation providing access to better healthcare for people in developing countries.
Study plans
A Bachelor of Science followed by a Doctor of Medicine at the University of Queensland.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Physics as it provides a mathematical framework for solving real-world problems.
Tips and advice for current students
Outside of school, learn two or three skills and try to get very good at them. Even if you don’t need them in your future career, the experience will widen your perspective on the world.
Ethan Naylor — Mountain Creek State High School
I’m inspired by people who push themselves to be the best they can possibly be, not for themselves, but for their community.
Career goal
To work at the Australian Defence Force as an electrical engineer officer submariner.
Study plans
To study electrical engineering at the Australian Defence Force Academy at the University of New South Wales, Canberra.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Engineering. The practical applications of the problem-solving process, and hands-on projects, allowed me to see the tangible results of my efforts.
Tips and advice for current students
Don't make school your whole life — pick up hobbies, exercise, and give yourself a break.
Daniel Burbidge — Matthew Flinders Anglican College
I would like to thank my parents, friends and teachers, as talking to them helped me uncover what I wanted to pursue in the future.
Career goal
To become a chemical engineer.
Study plans
A Bachelor of Medical Science at Griffith University.
Favourite subject in Year 12
I enjoyed Physics as our teacher always made the classes fun and engaging.
Tips and advice for current students
Make sure you study hard.
Wei-Che Chen — Brisbane State High School
My friends help me see things from different perspectives by introducing me to new ideas, and concepts, and sharing their experiences.
Career goal
To become a doctor.
Study plans
A Bachelor of Biomedicine at the University of Melbourne.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Specialist Mathematics is fun and interesting.
Tips and advice for current students
Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable goals.
Eunsu Choi — Brisbane State High School
If you're passionate about something, you should pursue it.
Career goal
To use artificial intelligence as a force for good.
Study plans
A Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) — Science at Australian National University.
Favourite subject in Year 12
English and Literature Extension because analysing literature helps expose inequalities in the world.
Tips and advice for current students
Keep a balance in your life. Getting a job right before externals might have seemed like a crazy decision to some, but leaving the house and interacting with other people every day kept me sane and was a big part of my success.
Chelsea Clifford — Brisbane State High School
I have a lot of mentors and people I look up to, but I am most inspired by my mum. She has incredibly strong values, is determined, and always works hard.
Career goal
To become a paediatrician and give back to communities in regional and rural Australia and the South Pacific.
Study plans
To study Medicine at The University of Queensland.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Specialist Mathematics as I really enjoyed being challenged and having an amazing class and teacher.
Tips and advice for current students
Work hard but keep things in perspective and enjoy the last year of high school with your friends!
Sahan Conaghan — Brisbane State High School
Inspiration can be found in everyone we meet.
Career goal
To work as a doctor in clinical and research settings, while maintaining a balanced lifestyle by continuing to play football, chess and the piano.
Study plans
To achieve provisional entry into the Doctor of Medicine at the University of Queensland.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Specialist Mathematics challenged my way of thinking and improved my problem-solving skills.
Tips and advice for current students
Teach people at every opportunity — this will ensure you fully understand a topic.
Shani Darling — Grace Lutheran College
I’m inspired by my mum’s dedication to self-improvement and her generosity and selflessness and my dad’s positive energy and commitment to helping others.
Career goal
To research, write and possibly work in the medical field, and to volunteer, travel and experience new cultures.
Study plans
A Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) and Doctor of Medicine at The University of Queensland, or a Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Medicine at the University of Melbourne.
Favourite subject in Year 12
English & Literature Extension. I learnt to appreciate the nuanced ways in which words can shape our understanding of the world
Tips and advice for current students
Be open to challenges and learning new things, and ask lots of questions!
Hasara Ekanayake — Brisbane State High School
There is something to be learned from every friend, family member and teacher.
Career goal
To use empathy, transparency and education to help build trust between at-risk communities and medical professionals.
Study plans
A Bachelor of Science/Arts leading to provisional entry to Medicine at The University of Queensland or University of Melbourne.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Literature. It challenges the way you think about others and yourself.
Tips and advice for current students
Ask for support when you need it, whether that be academic, emotional, or practical advice.
Emma Fensom — Brisbane State High School
I was really inspired by a teacher at my school who ran a volunteer program that allowed older students to tutor and mentor those who struggled at school.
Career goal
I’ve always wanted to be a writer.
Study plans
A Bachelor of Law and Arts majoring in English Literature and Philosophy at The University of Queensland.
Favourite subject in Year 12
English and Literature Extension. Exploring literary theories was very interesting.
Tips and advice for current students
Study and learn at your own pace, and have confidence in your ability to do well, if you put in the work.
James Ferguson — Brisbane State High School
My friends inspire me, they are so smart and kind. I’m lucky to know them.
Career goal
To enjoy my work more than my free time. I want to be genuinely excited about whatever I do.
Study plans
A Bachelor of Advanced Finance and Economics at The University of Queensland.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Literature. My teacher made every class interesting and unique.
Tips and advice for current students
Make your academic decisions by considering what you find most exciting. School shouldn’t be boring!
Andrew Gong — Brisbane State High School
My hardworking peers inspire me to do my best.
Career goal
To become a paediatrician or general practitioner.
Study plans
To study Medicine at Griffith University or James Cook University.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Specialist Mathematics because solving a hard question was always satisfying.
Tips and advice for current students
Always start your assignments, homework tasks and revision as early as you can.
Aastha Gupta — Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics and Technology
I'm inspired by my parents, who moved to a foreign country in their endeavour to give me and my sister every possible opportunity. Their bravery, hard work and resilience is an inspiration.
Career goal
To work in business leadership and become an entrepreneur.
Study plans
A Bachelor of Advanced Finance and Economics (Honours) at The University of Queensland.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Economics gave me a fundamental insight into how resources are allocated and how real-world decisions are made, both at a market level and a national level.
Tips and advice for current students
Don’t be afraid to go above and beyond to achieve your goals — it pays off in the end.
Toby Heytman — St Peters Lutheran College
Throughout high school, the competitiveness and encouragement between me and my friends inspired me to achieve the results I did.
Career goal
To gain experience in the world of corporate finance and open my own firm in the future.
Study plans
Bachelor of Advanced Finance and Economics at The University of Queensland.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Economics. The content and theory have many real-world applications.
Tips and advice for current students
Find a good balance between studying and having fun. Studying 24/7 will only be counterproductive.
Alistair Hughes — A.B. Paterson College
The sacrifices my parents have made to bring our family to Australia has inspired me to give it my all in everything I do and make the most of this incredible opportunity they have given me.
Career goal
To become a doctor and eventually open my own practice. This would allow me to combine my interest in economics, business and finance with a desire to practice medicine.
Study plans
A Bachelor of Medical Science followed by a Doctor of Medicine at Griffith University.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Studying Economics helped enrich my understanding of how Australia functions, as well as every person's place and responsibility in the economy.
Tips and advice for current students
You only get one Year 12, so shoot for the stars in all your endeavours, but make sure you also kick back and relax with your mates.
Austine Gaheun Kim — Indooroopilly State High School
I am inspired by my friends who always work hard and do their best on everything.
Career goal
To become a dentist.
Study plans
Bachelor of Dental Science at The University of Queensland.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Specialist Mathematics. I enjoy learning about the differentiation and anti-differentiation of various functions.
Tips and advice for current students
Always do your best, and don't be afraid of asking questions.
Imogen Kleidon — The Glennie School
I knew I wanted to go into medicine, but to confirm this, I did work experience at Queensland X-Ray, completed university subjects during high school and read autobiographies by Australian doctors.
Career goal
To become a doctor and work in rural communities.
Study plans
A Bachelor of Biomedical Science at the University of Southern Queensland followed by a Doctor of Medicine at The University of Queensland’s rural clinical school in Toowoomba.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Chemistry. I love understanding the basis of almost all innovation, especially within medicine.
Tips and advice for current students
Try to have a well-rounded academic life and extend yourself outside of school to get the most out of these, in hindsight, very short years.
Charlotte Landherr — Kingaroy State High School
Becoming a doctor is a way of tackling social injustice.
Career goal
To become a doctor and maybe an author.
Study plans
To study medicine and surgery but I’m not sure where.
Favourite subject in Year 12
English. I enjoyed analysing texts, especially Macbeth. I also liked the creativity involved in writing my own short stories for certain assessment tasks.
Tips and advice for current students
Consider each piece of assessment as extremely important up until the moment it is due, but don't overthink it once it’s submitted because you have done everything you can.
Chinara Lau — Brisbane State High School
The women in my life inspire me — my mother, sister and close friends are some of the most talented and deserving people I know., They remind me to be unapologetic, authentic and eager every day.
Career goal
To travel the world and make meaningful connections with other people. I want to continue learning as much as possible and challenging myself.
Study plans
A Bachelor of Medical Science with provisional entry into the Doctor of Medicine at Griffith University.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Music Extension. I loved exploring the different areas of music that interest me.
Tips and advice for current students
Keep showing up, keep persevering and always be yourself.
Raymond Li — Brisbane State High School
My parents inspire me through their constant support, willingness to take risks and strong work ethic.
Career goal
To create innovative solutions to real-world problems and have a meaningful impact on society.
Study plans
A Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) and Master of Engineering at The University of Queensland.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Specialist Mathematics involved thinking outside the box to solve challenging problems.
Tips and advice for current students
Don't leave things to the last minute. The earlier you can start something, the better.
Tung-Hi Ma — Brisbane Girls Grammar School
I want to thank all my teachers who not only passed on their wisdom but their kindness and integrity from my primary school to high school years.
Career goal
I’d love to become a geriatrician and travel to learn about many cultures, so I can better serve my future patients.
Study plans
To study medicine.
Favourite subject in Year 12
English teaches us that people are complex and to approach each person with compassion.
Tips and advice for current students
Believe in yourself!
Amelia Mason — Kenmore State High School
My friends inspire me as they are fiercely loyal, intelligent and industrious, and always go beyond what is expected. They inspire me to work harder and be a more patient person (with difficulty).
Career goal
To become a classical musician on the viola, performing and teaching as a career.
Study plans
A Bachelor of Music and Pedagogy in about a year's time.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Literature challenged the way I think about history, society, cultural and political movements, and interpersonal relationships.
Tips and advice for current students
As long as you put effort into building strong relationships and enjoying your subjects, the big daunting last year of school can be not just manageable, but enjoyable.
Chloe Mather — St Peters Lutheran College
We’re human beings not human doings, so I think it matters more who I want to be after school than what I want to do.
Career goal
To have a fulfilling and rewarding career and always strive to do my best.
Study plans
A Bachelor of Advanced Finance and Economics at The University of Queensland.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Chemistry. The concepts are challenging and interesting and I had an amazing teacher and class who always made it fun and engaging.
Tips and advice for current students
Make as many memories and get involved in as many opportunities as you can because Year 12 will be over before you know it.
Michael Mead — St Andrews Lutheran College
I am inspired by people who truly know what they are talking about in a particular area. And I hope to be an expert in something one day.
Career goal
To work somewhere in medical science, human physiology and pharmacology.
Study plans
A Bachelor of Mathematics and a Bachelor of Science double degree at The University of Queensland.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Specialist Mathematics was particularly difficult but a lot of fun and really deepened my love for maths.
Tips and advice for current students
Figure out what your goals are and how you can achieve them. Then do that.
Lucinda McGaughran — Brisbane State High School
Katherine Johnson – a mathematician who worked for NASA from the 50s to the 80s —when very few women did — inspires me to be grateful for my opportunities and to pursue my goals no matter the challenge.
Career goal
To become an astronautical engineer, working on spacecraft such as satellites and drones.
Study plans
A Bachelor of Engineering Honours with Space Engineering at The University of Sydney.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Physics. I love finding out how things work and physics unpacks some of the unknowns of the world.
Tips and advice for current students
Celebrate success in your strong subjects as it can be easy to be weighed down by those more challenging. I also suggest choosing your senior subjects based on your interests.
Sam Millar-East — All Saints Anglican School
Andrew Wiles has been an inspirational figure due to his remarkable dedication to proving Fermat's last theorem, an achievement that took years of work. I aspire to remain steadfast through difficulties like he did.
Career goal
To pursue challenging problems in the field of maths, either in academia or industry.
Study plans
A Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) — Science at Australian National University.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Specialist Mathematics. I enjoy the logical way mathematical proofs are structured and the satisfaction of solving difficult problems, particularly the process of exploring an unfamiliar question.
Tips and advice for current students
Communicate with your teachers about what they expect of you and stay on top of content.
Natasha Miric — Brisbane Girls Grammar School
My family and friends have instilled the value of hard work and resilience, inspiring me to always challenge myself.
Career goal
To study medicine so I can bring more happiness and health to others.
Study plans
A Bachelor of Science followed by Doctor of Medicine.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Chemistry. I loved learning and following the rules of organic chemistry, molecular synthesis, and investigating novel nanoparticle treatments in research assignments.
Tips and advice for current students
Keeping busy with sport, co-curricular activities, and family time is a great way to balance the demands of a heavy workload and remind you of the importance of social connections and holistic development.
Srijit Mukherjee — Brisbane State High School
Tristan Harris — the CEO for the Center of Humane Technology— inspires me because he is someone who uses his software engineering skills to advocate for the responsible and ethical use of artificial intelligence by individuals and companies.
Career goal
To work in the robotics and automation industry to create sustainable and innovative products that benefit our world.
Study plans
A Bachelor of Engineering/Master of Engineering at The University of Queensland specialising in Mechatronics Engineering, followed by post-graduate study abroad.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Specialist Mathematics. The problem-solving questions were fun and. the varied topics, such as complex numbers, were fascinating.
Tips and advice for current students
Ensure you're organised throughout the year and make a weekly schedule that factors in homework, assignments and external exam preparation.
Joshua Newnes — The Gap State High School
I would like to thank my teachers for always being available to help with any questions I had, my family for supporting me, and my friends for the many fun times together.
Career goal
To work in a field where mathematics can be applied to solve interesting problems.
Study plans
A Bachelor of Philosophy (Science) at Australian National University.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Chemistry. There was a wide range of content which I found interesting through real-world application.
Tips and advice for current students
Don’t overload yourself with studying — take breaks and mix up how you study to keep it enjoyable.
Nicholas Nikov — Brisbane State High School
I am inspired by my parents. They have shown me the value of perseverance and positivity in the face of challenges.
Career goal
To become a doctor and specialise in a field I’m passionate about.
Study plans
A Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine at Griffith University.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Specialist Mathematics. It was satisfying to finally solve a complex question after many failed attempts.
Tips and advice for current students
Believe in yourself and take care of your physical and mental health. Be open to trying new things!
Jun Young Park — The Cathedral School of St Anne and St James
I want to develop healthy connections and habits for my life, so I can feel more stable and know who I am even more, especially in times when I am challenged by other people or tough circumstances.
Career goal
To be a doctor in a rural location and do academic research in a specialised area of medicine to make an advancement in that field.
Study plans
To study medicine.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Specialist Mathematics. Applying complex mathematical processes to questions that would come up in real-life scenarios was incredibly satisfying.
Tips and advice for current students
Find a study space that works for you. Having a division between a study space and a relaxing space helped me switch on and off.
Erin Park — Brisbane State High School
Dr Anna Raymond — an oral and maxillofacial surgeon — inspires me because her kind and empathetic nature highly elevates the healthcare that she provides to her patients. This encourages me to do the same in my future career.
Career goal
To become a doctor and specialise in emergency medicine or trauma surgery. Long-term, I want to travel overseas and practice medicine in third-world countries.
Study plans
A Doctor of Medicine after an undergraduate degree.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Physics. By challenging my knowledge of basic principles, It changed my understanding of how the world works.
Tips and advice for current students
Give your all in every subject and extra-curricular that you do, but don't forget to take time to enjoy your last year in high school.
Leila Raad — Kenmore State High School
I am inspired by my mum’s resilience and positivity. The greatest lesson she taught me was that challenges aren’t something to be afraid of but something to rise up to.
Career goal
To work in cyber security but I’m also interested in astrophysics and possibly coding in the space industry.
Study plans
A Bachelor of Information Technology at Queensland University of Technology.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Digital Solutions. I really enjoyed the problem solving involved in coding, and our teacher made every challenge fun to solve.
Tips and advice for current students
Commit to your goal, get focused, and ask for help if you need it. You don’t have to spend hours figuring something out yourself that someone else could explain to you in minutes!
Eric Salkeld — Brisbane State High School
The person who most inspires me is the person I feel I can become.
Career goal
Nothing specific right now but I’d like to be constantly challenged by work that I find interesting.
Study plans
Bachelor of Science — Mathematical Physics at the University of Melbourne.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Specialist Mathematics was the most conceptually difficult subject but particularly interesting and fun.
Tips and advice for current students
Choose your friends well — they should be good people who push you to do better.
Anna Sekulic — Brisbane State High School
My parents inspire me. They exemplify hard work and taught me valuable life lessons.
Career goal
To be a software developer in EdTech. I want to leverage the massive growth in current technology to create a more equitable education system.
Study plans
Bachelor of Science at the University of Melbourne.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Specialist Mathematics was a space for me to think intuitively. It involved alternative higher order thinking, which I found rewarding.
Tips and advice for current students
Don’t take the easy route, even if it’s the one most followed. Brave the challenge and appreciate your efforts regardless of the result.
Pranathi Sivakkumar — Mansfield State High School
My personal experiences with doctors inspired me to want to make a difference in other people's lives. I love the way medicine allows you to apply extreme technical practices in the most social manner.
Career goal
To pursue a career in medicine and serve the community. Long term, I hope to volunteer in different communities, travel to new countries and learn about new cultures.
Study plans
Bachelor of Medical Science followed by a Doctor of Medicine.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Literature. I was able to explore my values, beliefs and attitudes while also reading and learning how to craft some great pieces of writing.
Tips and advice for current students
Have a clear goal and work hard towards achieving it. Only worry about the things you can control. Enjoy your time and make lots of memories!
David Sun — Brisbane Grammar School
My family’s sacrifice inspires me to work my hardest and pursue my passions.
Career goal
To pursue a career in medicine and specialise as a surgeon.
Study plans
Bachelor of Biomedicine at The University of Queensland.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Biology. It’s the bridge between the mathematical intricacies of a science and the complexities of living things, global issues and modern research.
Tips and advice for current students
Take time to reflect on and appreciate what is most important to you.
Lindsey White — Coomera Anglican College
My grandfather inspires me due to his relentless dedication to his dreams, and resilience to overcome every challenge until his goals are fulfilled.
Career goal
To make a positive contribution to society as an individual and within the health care sector.
Study plans
A Bachelor of Paramedicine at Griffith University.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Chinese. Studying other cultures has always fascinated me, and learning a new language challenged me to think creatively.
Tips and advice for current students
Try new things and take every opportunity because by challenging yourself you can unlock new passions and make invaluable memories along the way.
Qixuan (Alice) Ye — St Hilda's School
Give yourself time and solitary time to make independent decisions — decisions not influenced by the external environment. I do this by keeping myself busy as thoughts generally find me as I work.
Career goal
A job in finance and public administration.
Study plans
Possibly a Bachelor of Economics and Finance at the University of Hong Kong.
Favourite subject in Year 12
English & Literature Extension explores the deep, fundamental aspect of literature that tries to understand the emptiness in life, the gap between our past and future, and the centuries we haven't experienced.
Tips and advice for current students
A quote from the Renaissance Italian poet Dante Alighieri's Divine Comedy: Walk your own path and let tongues wag.
Abhiram Yerramachu — Brisbane State High School
Understanding my values, strengths and the type of impact I wanted to have on society pushed me to pursue a career in medicine, where I can make meaningful improvements and contribute to the wellbeing of others.
Career goal
To pursue a career in medicine and contribute to the well-being of others through compassionate patient care, continuous learning, and medical research.
Study plans
Bachelor of Medical Science followed by the Doctor of Medicine at Griffith University.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Economics. It broadened my perspective on the world around me.
Tips and advice for current students
Manage your time wisely, set goals and ask questions to gain a deeper understanding. Don't stress.
Kaitlyn Yim — Brisbane State High School
Attending a placement with two oral and maxillofacial surgeons made me realise how important emotional sensitivity to staff and patients is in the medical field, inspiring me to study medicine.
Career goal
To become a doctor who makes patients feel that they are heard.
Study plans
Bachelor of Biomedicine with provisional entry into a Doctor of Medicine at The University of Queensland.
Favourite subject in Year 12
English and Literature Extension. I really enjoyed the self-directed exploration of complex social theories which are ingrained in the real world.
Tips and advice for current students
Have some fun! Discovering yourself and reflecting is integral to achieving the success you desire.
Jayden Young — Aspley State High School
I did work experience in cybersecurity and immediately fell in love with it.
Career goal
To become a security architect working in cybersecurity.
Study plans
Bachelor of Computer Science followed by a Masters of Cybersecurity at The University of Queensland.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Specialist Mathematics. I love how it tied together so many mathematical concepts and helped me develop a more comprehensive understanding of mathematics in general.
Tips and advice for current students
Focus on quality of study over length. Short efficient study is much more effective.
Roger Yu — Brisbane State High School
My friend’s boundless kindness, exceptional work ethic and relentless determination brought to my attention the numerous advantages I have enjoyed in life and catalysed my resolve not to squander them.
Career goal
To attain a PhD in nuclear physics or astrophysics, as a pathway to a long-term career in scientific research.
Study plans
Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) — Science and a Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics as a double degree at Australian National University.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Philosophy & Reason. The class always had a calm and relaxed atmosphere that allowed me to de-stress and reflect.
Tips and advice for current students
Don’t allow the stress of schooling and assessment discourage you from engaging with subjects that you otherwise find interesting — always hold on to your curiosity.
William Zhai — Anglican Church Grammar School
I am inspired to pursue a career in medicine by my parents who work in the medical field.
Career goal
To specialise in a medical field that interests me.
Study plans
Bachelor of Biomedicine followed by a Doctor of Medicine at the University of Melbourne.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Specialist Mathematics. I enjoyed the problem-solving process.
Tips and advice for current students
Have a good balance between study and leisure, and always do your best.
Lucy Zhou — Brisbane State High School
I have always been interested in economics and finance and I wish to learn more about how they shape the world and people's lives.
Career goal
To work in investment banking.
Study plans
A Bachelor of Commerce at University of Melbourne.
Favourite subject in Year 12
Economics. The concepts taught in class were relevant to current events and I enjoyed the connections between theory and the impact on the real-world.
Tips and advice for current students
Set small and consistent goals for yourself for each assessment, and the progress will accumulate.
- Last updated:
- 17 February 2024
