Student Reflections - Semester 1

HES Students

"On the HES Orientation Day, I was part of the Monash group where we participated in an icebreaker activity, a digital technology safety session, and an introduction to HES. The day was really engaging and gave a great overview of what to expect - (without being too terrifying for the first day). What I enjoyed most was being surrounded by like-minded students who are all motivated to excel, especially those interested in climate studies. It was really interesting to have discussions with such a diverse group of people who share similar passions. One thing I learned was just how diverse the cohort is, with students bringing different perspectives and ideas, which made conversations more insightful and meaningful. A challenge for me was the amount of information presented throughout the day, as it felt a bit overwhelming at times. However, it also showed how much there is to look forward to and learn in the course." - Heidi N

"Undertaking the Human Biosciences HES at La Trobe University has been an exceptional experience so far. In Semester One, our unit Human Biosciences A (HBA) introduced us to human physiology, covering how the body is organised and the major systems that keep it functioning. Our fortnightly workshops became a space to discuss and explore these topics, challenge each other's thinking, and genuine connections along the way. We got a chance to see our HBA learning come to life, during the Immersion Day, through using actual spirometers and ECGs. seeing real cadavers and bone specimens. The day also gave us a preview of our Semester Two content, with the opportunity to observe cadavers and real bone specimens up close, which was a genuinely exhilarating experience. We are all incredibly grateful for these experiences and opportunities, and we're looking forward to diving deeper into anatomy in our upcoming unit." - Pragya V & Matilda W

"Space Industry at Swinburne University of Technology has completely transformed my approach to the aerospace sector. Coming from a STEM background, this course pushed me beyond the excitement of rockets and rovers to investigate the real-world regulatory and defence frameworks that govern orbital technology. I have loved diving into dual-use systems, statutory export controls, and technical data verification, learning how civil innovation directly intersects with national security. This subject is great for students wanting to bridge high school science with real-world industry application. Studying through HES has given me an invaluable head start on university-level investigative research as well as helping me understand how university works." - Ritkriti M

"Travelling to South Yarra for English Language Unit 3/4 seminar days has been a highlight of my school terms - I even count down the days on my calendar! These experiences feel like a personal excursion, bringing together students across Victoria who share similar goals and interests studying VCE English Language at the CHES building. Seeing classmates in person highlights CHES’ unique hy-flex learning and makes the workshops more engaging and rewarding. Seminar days improve connection, collaboration, and support, helping us build strong friendships while developing our writing and thinking skills. The teachers’ well-designed workshops and excursions, like our visit to the Ian Potter Gallery, make learning both meaningful, fun and memorable. " - Millie K

"This is my second year at CHES; I’m currently undertaking Algorithmics and Specialist Maths, and my time at CHES has been unforgettable. Every seminar day has been packed with highlights, from watching robots playing soccer at RMIT to learning eye-opening information during the masterclasses. The unique hy-flex model offers amazing flexibility but demands a strong, independent learning skillset, and it has really taught me the importance of stepping up and reaching out to our incredibly supportive teachers. Beyond academics, events like trivia and bingo on orientation days have made it easier to connect with new friends across Victoria. My experience within the CHES community has been truly invaluable; it has helped me grow both academically and personally." - Tracey L

"Seminar days are like the last piece of the puzzle. They bring everything together. Students, teachers, and most importantly, ideas. It goes without saying that units 3/4 Extended Investigation is extremely self-led. At times it can feel daunting, but you step into that classroom on seminar day, and everything makes sense. You talk about your research, your progression, before listening to those around you about theirs. This part in particular makes you say, ‘I know what I’m talking about’. We even get highly credited researchers speak to us about their research and give us tips and tricks that boost our confidence in our research. Seminar days at CHES offer such a priceless way of learning that encapsulate and enlighten ideas, and most importantly, make the whole thing exciting." - Renae B

"It was such a great experience to be in a diplomatic setting and hearing different countries' perspective on the same topic. I've made many alliances with other delegates and had a lot of funs hearing debates, statements, amendments and proposals. Model UN is an awesome opportunity that has strengthen my teamwork and diplomacy skill. Thank you, CHES and UN Association of Australia. And most importantly, thank you to all Kittitians and Nevisians that have chosen us to be their delegates to the United Nations. SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS ON TOP!!!" - Long N

"Through the MUN I learned how to argue and share my points diplomatically from the perspective of the country I represent which gave me a broader view on how international decisions are made in the wider world. I enjoyed the caucus discussions the most as a lot of delegates got into their role very well which encouraged my team to immerse ourselves more as well! At first, I thought it would be super serious and intimidating but surprisingly it was very beginner friendly and eye opening. The direct attacks between delegates were also enjoyable to watch!"
- Louise E

"Participating in the Public English-Speaking Award was a valuable experience that helped me build my confidence in public speaking. It challenged me to express my ideas clearly, think critically about an important issue, and connect with an audience. It was a unique opportunity to try something I hadn't experienced before and share my perspective with others, while developing skills that will benefit me both at school and in the future." - Bhavika K

"I have taken apart of the annual Plain English-Speaking Award (PESA) heat at CHES this year. Apart of this competition I had to present a 5–6-minute speech on a current topic concerning youth and had to compete in a 4-minute impromptu speech. This was unlike anything I had experienced before, and it was an absolutely amazing. During this competition I was extremely nervous but along the way I met many lovely people. Participating in this competition improved my public speaking skills and my confidence. This was a memorable experience I will never forget, and I encourage everyone who can participate to do so." - Dilpreet K