HSC mystery mark to Dean’s Medal

Afifa Fahez is the epitome of hard work. After falling short of achieving an ATAR high enough to directly enter a teaching degree at Western Sydney University, she did things the hard way to finish in the top two per cent of her degree.

Afifa says she worked hard in high school but didn't get the results she was looking for.

"I was into my study during high school but I felt I just couldn't get there. I bombed out in my HSC and so in order to get into university I went through The College at the University.

"When I entered my degree I felt like I had more freedom. The quality of teaching was really good and hands on," says Afifa.

Afifa hit her stride at university and finished in the top two per cent of her cohort. She was awarded the Dean's Medal along with the Sarah Hilton Memorial Award for Outstanding Results in English.

She is now working as a year one teacher and says her degree prepared her well for life after studying.

"I'm currently working at Salamah College where I started as a casual during my degree. My course more than prepared me for my current job and I'm really enjoying it."

Afifa says the support from her parents and partner was a great help in reaching her goals.

"My parents along with my husband were a big support throughout this degree, and without their unconditional love and support I would not have achieved all that I have to date."

Ends

16 September 2016

Elliott Richardson - Media Assistant