dux 2016

Heather Secomb

Assistant Principal

William Vo was awarded Dux 2016 of Brunswick Secondary College, achieved an Atar of 98.15.

This honour was well deserved, as William's school career was defined by consistently high Work Practices, a deep commitment to learning and strong and collaborative relationships with his teachers and peers.

William attended the first assembly of 2017 to formally accept his award whre he addressed the school community and reflected on his time at BSC.

Following is Williams speech:

"Good afternoon, students and teachers of Brunswick Secondary College, and thank you for having me. I’ll try and keep this speech as short as possible, because truthfully, standing up here is terrifying!

I’d first like to thank not only those teachers who taught me but all of the staff of Brunswick, because after all, education is not a simple affair. It requires the collaboration of numerous individuals who work together and I thank each and every one of you. If not for your efforts, I would not be here, and perhaps you would be listening to the charismatic Elise Louey, our dear 2016 School Captain who would undoubtedly give a better speech then I. Whilst I’d like to name all of my teachers to give them the recognition they deserve, I’m far too nervous and hope this collective 'thank you' will be sufficient.

I’d also like to thank my most understanding family and friends, without whom I would have been unlikely to manage the pressures of Year 12. Whilst just a few of them are here to hear this message of gratitude, I’d like to take this opportunity to urge you all, especially Year 12s, to understand the worth of having an effective support network to support you through the troubles of Year 12. For those in younger years, I urge you to reach out to your peers: participate in extracurricular activities, like Production and Sport, forge connections and friendships - because they will be one of the most special things that you take away from Brunswick.

When I was writing my speech, I had grand delusions of offering profound moral messages to drastically change your lives. I wanted to take this opportunity to really make an impact, helping you all to better lives.

But then I had a thought.

I’m just a young man, still 17 years old, with the audacity to believe he has all the answers - just because he had the highest ATAR score. Ridiculous! The ATAR is not the important thing you take away from Brunswick Secondary, it is the knowledge, the friendships and the life experience that Brunswick offers you. To state a cliché, your ATAR does not define you, as after all - I still have no clue what I’m doing, unlike, I’m sure, many others in the audience.

To finish, I urge all of you to be proactive in your education here at Brunswick, push yourselves out of your comfort zones and attempt to receive not only an education in academic matters, but also one in how to live life. Your success will not be measured in your academic accomplishments but by whether you remain focused and driven enough to fulfil your goals.

Thank you all for listening and I wish you well in your endeavours."