Along with four other IGS Class of 2021 alumni, Grace achieved a result in the highest band possible (Band 6 or Band E4) in 10 or more units of her courses, and an ATAR of 98.75.
“I feel really excited and really proud to have made it through what was a really challenging year for so many reasons,” Grace said.
“I am really happy to have this result and be able to look to the future and see what’s next.”
Grace said she would like to congratulate everyone in the IGS Class of 2021.
“Everyone has done such an amazing job to get through last year.
“For me, my results were quite a surprise.” She said she felt “pretty lost” at some stages, particularly when HSC examination dates were rescheduled.
“I made it through to the other side.”
“The ATAR doesn’t define who you are as a person or what you’ve done throughout your schooling,” she added.
Grace achieved top band results in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics Extension 1 and
Mathematics Extension 2.
Grace, Head Girl and STEM Portfolio Leader, was a highly active member of the IGS community, starring in the School’s 2021 production of Much Ado About Nothing. Outside of School she is a professional actor and ambassador for B Kinder Day. She was selected for the Professor Harry Messel International Science School and was awarded a Youth Community Service Award by NSW Governor Her Excellency the Hon Margaret Beazley AC QC in 2021.
Asked what advice she could share with younger students approaching their HSC, Grace said she did her best by “keeping the wonder and joy in the subjects you are studying alive”.
“It’s easy to get bogged down and feel it’s overwhelming, but having a variety of ways of studying, keeping things fresh and interesting and learning things in a new way is what kept me motivated.
“Pursue what you really enjoy doing!”
As for the future …
“I was hoping to go overseas and travel through Europe as a gap year, but will probably be starting uni at UTS or UNSW, studying a combination of science and arts.
“I’m interested in becoming a science communicator, to combine all the things I love about science and my acting and production skills.”
She is also hoping to wrap up her Amazing Grace video series in honour of her late father, “though my Dad will always be a part of our lives”.