Name: Aashana

School: Mount Gambier High School

I had help from some special people. Their names are: Toni Vorenas who was my English Studies teacher and helped improve my academic writing, Principal Gary Costello who supported me throughout high school, Carol Shepherd and Kathy Beck for finding me a tutor and supporting me.

The hardest time for me was when: I doubted my abilities as I was the only Year 12 Aboriginal student. But then I realised this didn’t mean I wasn’t on anyone else’s level, and this turned out to be motivational and made me proud.

The best time for me was: After I completed my last exam. It was a huge weight off my shoulders. I realised after school I could do anything I wanted because I got through Year 12, it was a good feeling.

I have been able to find work and I am employed: As a government trainee Receptionist at Grant High School.

I plan to enrol at: Adelaide University.

I want to study: Bachelor of Law/Arts

I know that I am a role model for other Aboriginal students in my family and in my community and I am encouraging other students by: Demonstrating with the right attitude and confidence you can achieve anything. In the future I plan to be a mentor for Aboriginal students and help them achieve their dreams.

Any other comments you would like to make: It is important to recognise we are not born ‘smart’. The distinction is there are people that work hard and people that don’t. Find what it is that interests you. Don’t find something only for the money. Work hard now and get the rewards after, that’s better than not working hard now and doing it tough down the track. If you believe in yourself and surround yourself with the right people anything is possible.