I'm just looking for some advice. I applied for John Monash science school and was offered an interview, however, the results came out today and I was told that I didn't get in. I don't know what to do, because I had my entire future planned out, and a key part of that was to get into this school. I really like science and want to do it in the near future. I'm currently in year 9 as of 2019.
I just need some help in what I should now do now in terms of my future and whether I should stay in my school or change.
Thanks.
Hi, I'm currently in year 10 and was in your exact position last year. I was so passionate for science and was devastated that I didn't get in. Here's some thoughts:
1. Getting into JMSS should not be the key to your future. Trust me, realising this was hard, because you feel lost without the guidance of proper teachers and like-minded students. An important thing to recognise is you can pursue your passion for science even without the support of your school, if you stay resilient and put your mind to it. I applied for tons of science and math competitions and got to do some which were based online or didn't need to go through your school. This gave me a ton of confidence. Another thing that also helped was to 'study' or in a sense learn more about what you're passionate in, and online resources can really help with that: Khan Academy, Paul's online math notes, 3Blue1Brown etc. Make sure to indulge yourself and make little projects so you feel that you've gotten somewhere and have improved along the way.
2. Distance yourself from this loss and look at it from a fresh perspective. When I failed the interview I was so sure that I had done everything I could. After a fresh perspective I found out what I did wrong and what I could have done. Once you figure that out, you can improve upon this next year and there are many other paths to your future you can take, for example, JMSS year 11 entry or EBSS year 11 entry. If you feel sad, distract yourself with stuff you like, either through sport, music, art, or anything else you enjoy. Take time to refocus yourself and find out what you really want, not clouded by the constraints of VCE, university, or responsibilities. When you're young is the best time to explore your interests and make mistakes.
3. Focus on the future. There is so much, and seriously, so much you can choose to pursue from here. You can explore topics you enjoy and write some casual research papers. Maybe you can network around your area and find a few mentors. You are not restricted by this loss, or any other external pressure, and if you allow yourself to look past that, to think "what can I do to change this", you will find yourself off much better. There was so much I accomplished in the year I missed going to JMSS: I created a maths paper, I entered a program in which I created a new invention over the course of 12 weeks, I met countless mentors, did work experience at a reputable university, got more time with my friends, etc. I do not regret this year and you should not either. You have the power to change yourself and your future.
And on an optimistic note, I tried again for JMSS this year and got in, which shows that persistence sometimes does win the game. Best of luck.