2023 DUX SPEECH: 

CHARLOTTE ANGUS

Good evening, staff, students and parents, and thank you for allowing me the opportunity to speak tonight. 

It feels a little surreal to be standing here tonight as a past student, knowing that it was one whole year ago that I was anxiously awaiting my Year 12 results. 

My time at MacKillop was truly unforgettable and seemed to pass in the blink of an eye. I am deeply grateful for the lifelong friendships I made, the cherished memories I created, and the unwavering support I received from my teachers, especially in my final year. I also appreciate the privilege of being School Captain for 2023, a role that provided me with invaluable opportunities for growth and development. 

Year 12 is often referred to as the ‘make or break’ year, and I certainly felt the weight of that pressure throughout the year. The focus is often on results, which can be overwhelming at times. But looking back, I've come to realize that Year 12 is about much more than the final number. The true value lies in the lessons learned through perseverance, and the unforgettable memories you create along the way. I encourage you all to engage with the college community, embrace costume days, and fully enjoy events with your cohort, because, in the end, these are the moments that will stay with you long after the exams are over. 

Since graduating, I’ve taken a gap year and worked in administration at Seed Ability. I’m grateful for the opportunity and have enjoyed the break from studying while stepping into the real world. This year has taught me that it’s okay not to have everything figured out right away. 

It’s easy to look around and think others have it all figured out, but everyone’s journey is different. Focus on your own goals, work hard, and don’t compare your progress to anyone else’s. Whether it’s university, a trade, work, travel, or a gap year, what matters most is putting in your best effort wherever you are. 

During VCE, I felt a lot of pressure to know exactly what I wanted to do, believing the course I chose would define my entire future. But I’ve learned that it’s okay to change direction, and that uncertainty is part of the process. Initially, I had enrolled in a Bachelor of Secondary Education, but over the course of 2024, I’ve explored many other options. Now, I’m excited to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce at Deakin and look forward to moving to Melbourne and discovering the opportunities that await. 

I would like to thank my family for always backing me, my teachers for having faith in me and putting up with millions of questions each lesson and to Mrs Howison for the lasting impact she has had on me. As my mentor throughout Year 12, she offered unwavering support and guidance, her belief in me and advice helped me grow not only as a student but as an individual. I am incredibly grateful for everything she has done to guide and inspire me, and I know that the community will miss her. 

I wish future Year 12s the very best with their studies, and want to remind you to do your best, but don’t be too hard on yourself. Trust that things will fall into place, even if it doesn’t always feel like it. Embrace the uncertainty, keep learning, and above all, enjoy the journey. 

Thank you again for having me here tonight, and I wish you all the very best in your own

paths ahead.