Everyone knows Year 12 is a big deal for students. It’s not always so clear that parents are also trying to do their best in a very challenging year. Maria and Stella remember it all only too well. After a shaky start, their daughters are now happily studying at UTS. Here they answer some common parent questions.
- How did you support your child through the HSC?
Maria (whose daughter Stefania is now studying Bachelor of Forensic Science) says, “I just tried to be there for her. I told her to go for what she wanted. Whatever she was happy with, she knew we supported her.” Stella’s daughter, Tahlia, is studying Bachelor of Advanced Science (with a pre-medicine major). She says, “Year 12 is a huge milestone. It’s like climbing Everest. For me, it was about being there and supporting her any way that I could.”
- How did you feel when they were heading into the exams?
Maria wishes she could have helped more. She says, “I was concerned about whether she’d find a place at uni. I didn’t have any experience of Year 12. But I was always there for her.” Stella found herself looking back to her own high school days. “I think you regress to when you were there,” she says. “You look back and you think it’s such a big deal for no reason. There’s so much pressure and it’s not really the be-all-and-end-all. I’ve learnt there are ways around everything.”
- What would you recommend to other parents during the HSC?
“I think the most important thing is that they’re not too stressed,” Maria says. “Make sure they know you’re there for them whichever way it goes. I’ve learnt that if they don’t make it, there’s always a way to get there.” Stella agrees that happiness comes first. “They need to find their passion in life – what they enjoy and what makes them happy. That’s what high school should be all about.”
- What do you wish you’d known before the end of Year 12?
Maria says, “I wish I’d known how to help her get better marks. None of my other children did Year 12, so I didn’t have any experience with it. Stella wishes she had known about pathway options like UTS College. She says, “I could have used that information to reassure her. I’m grateful that she researched it and found the opportunity herself. Everyone’s so focused on university they don’t know there’s this stepping-stone.”
- What if my child doesn’t get the ATAR or uni offer they want?
Both our mums want parents to know there are still ways to help your child into their chosen course. “Stefania didn’t get very high marks,” says Maria, “but she went to UTS College and worked her way up. They can do it, no matter what. If they really want it, they can.” Stella agrees. “If the passion is there, they’ll find a way in. There are ways of getting your foot in the door, like a pathway course. I think if you’re persistent, and you persevere, ultimately it leads to success one way or another,” she says.
UTS College, the pathway to UTS
Stefania and Tahlia are both UTS College success stories. After completing a Diploma of Science, Stefania gained direct entry to Bachelor of Forensic Science at UTS, and Tahlia is now in the pre-medicine stream of Bachelor Advanced Science after winning the Outstanding Graduate Prize for Diploma of Science.
Maria says, “Stefania’s come such a long way since UTS College. I’m really proud of her. She’s doing what she wants to do and she’s so happy and confident.” Stella says Tahlia also thrived in the supportive environment of the College. “I think it was perfect for her. She made great friends, and she had nothing but good things to say about the teachers.”
Next steps: help your child secure their UTS backup plan
If you or your child are anxious about the ATAR, remember that UTS College is the perfect UTS backup plan. Diplomas in Animation Production, Business, Communication, Design and Architecture, Engineering, Information Technology, and Science give students the skills and knowledge they need to succeed at UTS and beyond. Small class sizes cultivate a more personalised experience, with a robust framework of support services tailored to meet the needs of every student. The College offers guaranteed entry to UTS, with most diplomas fast-tracking successful students into second year*. Secure your place now and give your family peace of mind as your child heads into the HSC.
Find out more about UTS College
Don’t wait until ATAR Day. There’s another way to secure your child’s place at UTS. Find out how at UTS College’s ‘Know Your Options’ info session.
* Based on successful completion of your diploma with the required GPA. The point where you enter your UTS degree depends on the course and major you choose.