‘VCE is closely linked to the teaching system at Australian universities and offers a wide choice of subjects. The assessment model is designed with multiple opportunities to improve your performance and raise your marks along the way. Also, the engaging classroom format gives international students a head start in adapting to the Australian university environment.’
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With an eye on a future career in investment banking, Max was looking for a senior secondary qualification that would equip him with both the subject knowledge and mindset needed for the high-powered world of global finance.
VCE immediately appealed as the best choice. ‘VCE is closely linked to the teaching system at Australian universities and offers the flexibility of a wide choice of subjects, so you can choose the ones that interest you,’ says Max. ‘Also, the VCE assessment model is designed with multiple opportunities to improve your performance and raise your marks along the way.’
Another advantage of VCE is the highly engaging classroom format. Max says, ‘It gives international students like me a head start in adapting to the Australian university environment.’
The applied learning approach is another clear benefit in Max’s eyes. ‘The practical and action-based aspects are undeniably valuable,’ he says. ‘You not only learn the concepts but also how to apply them. For me, this has developed a certain numerical sensitivity and management mindset that is useful for my university studies and beyond.’
The assessment model does require students to develop the resilience to undergo repeated assessment tasks, Max feels. ‘Compared to other exam-based international programs, VCE has a relatively high number of stage tests, so you need to be able to handle that,’ he says. ‘But the upside of learning to continually adjust your thinking and prepare for the next test is that it helps you adapt more quickly to university life.’
Max believes the fortitude he developed through VCE, along with the subjects he was able to choose, have given him the knowledge and skills to face university and his future career with ease.
Max’s top 3 tips for VCE students are to fully trust your teachers and let them guide you, plan in advance for future exams, and learn how to set and stick to your own milestones. His final words of advice: ‘Please believe in yourself and all your efforts will be reflected in your results.’