How Amy found her own way through the Year 12 exams

Navigating Year 12 can be daunting. You may feel overwhelmed or unmotivated, or even just confused about what you want to do when you finish. Amy was feeling unsupported by her school and unsure of the path she wanted to take. It wasn’t until she took a close look at her study and learning methods that she identified what worked for her and what didn’t.

Figure out your favourite way to learn

Understanding what learning methods work for you can transform how you study. Amy realised that reading textbooks and quizzing herself wasn’t helping, so she experimented with different learning styles until she found methods that worked for her. 

If you prefer learning from videos, charts and diagrams, consider colour-coding your notes or making a mind map. If you learn best by listening, it can help to read your notes aloud, explain concepts to others or listen back to recordings from class. If you enjoy getting hands-on with your learning, mix some physical movement into your study routine — try reviewing your notes while walking, or create interactive flashcards.

Don’t be afraid to ditch methods that don’t work for you – it’s about finding what clicks. If you need help figuring out your preferred learning and study styles, take this at-home study-style quiz or check out these study hacks.  

Explore your options

Like many Year 12 students, Amy felt a lot of pressure to get a high ATAR and to attend university. It can sometimes feel like university is the only option after school, and that not following that path means you’ve failed. The truth is there’s a lot of ways to follow your dreams after high school, and university is just one pathway out of many. 

Here are some of the different paths you might consider after finishing your studies:

• University: If uni’s your goal, research different courses and find one that speaks to your interests. Uni open days are a great chance to speak with current students and get a feel for the environment. Read our guide to starting uni.

• Vocational education: If you’d prefer hands-on training in your field, look into starting an apprenticeship or getting a diploma or certificate. TAFE and other vocational-based colleges offer clear pathways to employment and further study. Get some tips on studying at TAFE.

• Working or taking a gap year: If further study doesn’t appeal to you right now, consider working full-time or taking a gap year. Finding a job, or taking a gap year to travel or volunteer, can help you to meet new people and gain valuable insights and skills. Learn more about how to get a job after finishing your studies.

If you’re unsure where to go next, don’t stress – it’s normal to find yourself at a crossroads after finishing school. Here’s how you can make more of an informed decision:

• Do some research. Search online for different careers and write down what you like the sound of. 

• Make a vision board. Use these tips on how to use a vision board to think about your future.

• Reflect on what you enjoy. What are your interests? Your passions? Your hobbies? Knowing the kind of life you want to lead will help you to figure out your next steps. See how other young people figured out what to do with their lives. 

• Find support from those around you. Ask for advice from your friends, family or a professional.  

With her family’s support, Amy discovered a path that aligned with her values and interests. Remember that there’s no one right path; there’s only the one that’s right for you! 

Looking for more tips on getting through Year 12? Ask ReachOut.