Support and study the secret to success

Madelyn Scanlan was awarded Dux at Burnett State College's Awards Night last night.

ASPIRING VET: Madelyn Scanlan received Dux of Burnett State College, an award presented to the highest achieving Year 12 student.

SUPPORT and extra study hours are the secret to becoming the highest achieving Year 12 student, according to Madelyn Scanlan who was awarded Dux at Burnett State College's Awards Night on Thursday.

The diligent student said without all the extra time she put in working on assignments and preparing for exams, she wouldn't have been able to keep on top of her workload.

And it seems humility didn't go astray in the process either.

"Without the support around me, I would not have been able to put in the time that I have," Miss Scanlan said.

"My parents driving to pick me up from after school tutoring. Teachers who have backed me and provided assistance that was vital in my success and my friends who have supported me through all of my stressed moments, reminding me that having fun is important too."

Miss Scanlan said she had been working toward the achievement but it was still definitely a surprise hearing her name announced for the award.

"I had always hoped to receive Dux, however it was just one of those things that I never thought would actually happen to me," she said.

"My parents were absolutely the most proud of me. They have supported me throughout my entire schooling and have been instrumental in ensuring that I never gave up on my goals.

"Without them in my corner supporting me at every step I would not have been able to achieve any of the things that I have this year."

With a taste for academic success Miss Scanlan isn't about to give away the books any time soon.

"I am hoping to be accepted into JCU Townsville next year to eventually graduate as a veterinarian.," she said.

"I am most looking forward to starting a new chapter with all of the new experiences that offer, as scary as that prospect may be."