Deakin University’s Jacqui Peters and top Geelong student Jesse McDougall offer ATAR results advice for VCE students

One of Geelong’s top students and a Deakin University expert have revealed their go-to advice for nervous VCE students in the lead-up to ATAR results being released.

Jesse McDougall is reminding his peers “whatever happens, happens”. Picture: Alan Barber

With VCE results day fast approaching, a Deakin University expert and a leading Geelong student are young people to remember their ATAR does not need to define them.

Thousands of students across Victoria will receive their results on December 12, which - for many - will provide the answer to what they’ll be doing next.

However, Deakin University School of Education lecturer Jacqui Peters said many pathways existed for school-leavers.

“There are lots of students who get into the courses they want, even if they’re not getting the scores,” Dr Peters said.

“We want students to look at their ATAR, spend some time letting it settle in and then think practically, that there are other ways (into courses), not being reactive or concerned.”

Dr Peters said if a student did not get the ATAR they were seeking, they should look at other options.

“If the ATAR disappoints, look at it as an opportunity to think: ‘Is that the university I really need to go to?’,” she said.

“There are all sorts of ways of getting in (to courses), but at the same time there are those other options, including trades.”

Kardinia International College year 12 student Jesse McDougall said he was feeling “optimistic” ahead of results day on December 12.

The Premier’s VCE Award winner said he was keeping in mind that the end-of-year results were out of his hands now.

Jesse McDougall says he is mostly hoping to have achieved subject goals. Picture: Alan Barber

“Mostly, I’m hoping to have achieved my goals for specific subjects,” the 2022 school captain said.

“But either way, I think I’ll be happy. You just run with what you get.

“Whatever happens, happens.”

Mr McDougall said he was staying calm by doing activities to take his mind off it.

“Catching up with friends (has been) a huge one,” he said.

“You can all have fun and do things that are separate from school.

“It’s nice not to have such a rigid routine … making the most of spontaneity.

“I think it’s mostly just about enjoying the things that you might not have been able to enjoy as much this year.”

Dr Peters said students should sit with their results on December 12 and feel secure knowing there will be many pathways to take.

“Let it sink it, then you can make some next steps,” she said.

“You don’t have to be reactive on the day.

“People go on to do amazing things after VCE. Go easy on yourself.”

Originally published as Deakin University’s Jacqui Peters and top Geelong student Jesse McDougall offer ATAR results advice for VCE students