LANA Cooper has a wide range of options to consider after receiving her Higher School Certificate results, with her performance opening pathways she had not anticipated.
The Wauchope High School vice-captain achieved an ATAR of 91.4, a result that exceeded her expectations and significantly broadened her post-school opportunities.
Lana was also named on the Distinguished Achievers list for English Advanced, English Extension 2 and Visual Arts, recognising her achievement of top-band results in those subjects.
“It’s a good opportunity to pursue a dream I don’t know I have yet,” she said.
Despite her strong results, Lana said she remained undecided about her future direction.
“I’m a bit torn,” she said.
“I really enjoyed Physics, Biology, and English in Year 12.”
She said Physics became a standout subject after initially presenting a challenge.
“Having those lightbulb moments where I was like ‘okay, I see how this works.’”
Lana said these moments strengthened her confidence and encouraged her to persist with complex concepts.
She credited her teachers with fostering her enthusiasm for learning and motivating her to work consistently throughout her final year of school.
“I think through the HSC, even at a small school, having a teacher who is really driven ignites your passion for that subject,” she said.
Lana is now considering several tertiary pathways, including a possible career in meteorology.
“I’m considering meteorology but I need to look a bit more into that.”
Meteorology is a postgraduate field that requires completion of a Science degree with Honours before specialised study can begin.
With high achievement across both creative and scientific disciplines, Lana has positioned herself strongly for the transition to tertiary education.
Her results reflect sustained commitment throughout her senior studies and provide a solid foundation as she weighs her next steps.
By Pauline CAIN
