Dux 2018

Aidan McShane

Our sincere congratulations go to Aidan McShane, the Kilvington Grammar Dux for 2018. Aidan is also our first male Dux in the history of Kilvington Grammar School.

Q. What did you most enjoy during your VCE year?

A. Year 12 was the most enjoyable year of secondary school for me. I loved the collegiate atmosphere and really enjoyed strengthening relationships within my cohort and with my teachers.

Considering everyone was experiencing the same pressures, all my classmates were very supportive of each other. It was heartening to be part of such a network. Experiences like Year 12 Camp and our final House competitions were also highlights as they allowed me to forget about the pressures of Year 12 and ensure my final year was memorable.

Q. How did you feel when you were told you were the Dux of the 2018 cohort?

A. I was humbled when I was first informed – since I knew I had many worthy classmates and was part of a very capable and well-rounded cohort.

However, I am proud of my result, and would be regardless, Dux or not. What mattered most to me was that my friends and cohort, as a whole, also achieved results of which to be very proud.

Q. What do you think it was that enabled you to achieve this great result?  What did you do during 2018 that set you up so well?

A. I felt it was important that I not remove myself from commitments within and outside School. I think remaining involved in music ensembles and sporting teams helped me to stay grounded and connected and remember that there was more to life than endeavouring to maintain a perfect SAC record.

Counterintuitively, I think this was the crucial aspect that helped me to manage the workload and stress when approaching assessments. On top of this, most of my study focused on practice exams and essays, and I found staying after school in the treehouse was more conducive to working efficiently.

Q. What has this result enabled you do in terms of your future?

A. My VCE results opened up a wide array of university options in terms of courses and institutions. It was simultaneously exciting and daunting to have all my potential pathways open to me.

Q. Where and what are you studying now?

A. This year I have commenced studying Medicine at Monash University.

Q. What advice would you give to students studying their VCE?

A. Personally, I think finding balance is the most important thing when completing the final couple of years at School. I see it as really important to maintain hobbies, interests and co-curricular commitments throughout Year 12. While it is difficult to find an equilibrium, doing things outside of your studies will help maintain your vigour and motivation for learning.

I also think it is invaluable to choose subjects you really enjoy – it’s so much easier study a subject that truly interests and inspires you. Oh, and use your teachers! They are your best and most accessible resource and are always eager to lend a hand.

Q. What is the most meaningful aspect of your time at Kilvington?

A. I valued the School community above all else. I loved being part of a relatively small cohort, and forging relationships with teachers that were always pleased to give their time to assist their students. The size of Kilvington is perfect and I found it was always a comfortable and welcoming place to learn and develop. There is something truly special about being a part of a tight-knit community like Kilvington’s - it is something that will stay with me throughout the years ahead.