Dean of Studies | Mr Mason Hellyer

Success is what you make of it

Many quotes attempt to define success. Many refer to the attainment of a physical object; a gold medal, a championship ring, money. Some refer to the attainment of intangibles such as power or influence. These definitions all refer to external rewards as measures of success.

External rewards are very powerful as they provide a focus or an outcome goal to strive toward. Tuesday’s Academic Medal Assembly was a wonderful opportunity to recognise the achievements of our students. The awardees decided to commit to their studies, follow up on their commitment with hard work and have been rewarded with an academic medal.

The Academic Medal is external recognition of success. However, the majority of the boys awarded have been motivated by the internal desire to succeed. I see these award winners as a success. Our Diligence and Improvement Award winners are also a success. Our 2020 median ATAR 91.65 student, who was offered the University course of his choice, is a success.

At Terrace, we intentionally challenge every boy to be a success, or more specifically, to be the best that he can be. While I might aspire to be a medallist in the Surfing at the Tokyo Olympics, I know I may just miss out at present. However, that does not stop me from being the best that I can be.

Remember, as 2018 College Dux Jacob Montaner said at the 2019 Scholars' Assembly 

Motivation leads to hard work, and hard work leads to success.

Our Year 12 students are entering a busy time of the term with their first exam block commencing this week. Now is the time where consistent effort will pay off during this peak in the assessment cycle.

All the best.