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For Yuhan Gai, studying the VCE was the perfect answer to her desire to study overseas, visit Australia and gain access to Australian universities.
After successfully completing VCE subjects in Chinese First Language, English as an Additional Language, Physics, Mathematical Methods and Specialist Mathematics, Yuhan is now an undergraduate student in Bachelor of Science and Master of Science (Mathematics and Statistics) at Australia’s top university — The University of Melbourne.
It took commitment and hard work.
‘Although Chinese is my first language, the way that VCE Chinese was taught and how it was examined was very different from what I have been used to,’ Yuhan says.
‘Getting myself familiar with this difference was quite challenging.
‘Also getting up early to sit exams at the same time as students in Australia might be hard but fun for us in China.’
VCE study also helped Yuhan settle into university life.
‘I think it was easier for me to make friends with other students at university because we have done similar curriculum, and they were always intrigued by the fact that I did the VCE outside of Australia.’
Yuhan now has her mind set on working as a researcher in mathematics or physics — or both.
‘The VCE helped me to get in touch with many researchers, mainly at The University of Melbourne, which made my goal more concrete and achievable.’
Her advice to others considering studying the VCE?
‘Pay attention to your teacher and don't be shy to ask them any questions,’ she says.
‘And not only questions directly related to the subjects — you should also be comfortable to ask them for advice for your own career.’