We are proud to celebrate Olivia Williams, one of Ruyton’s 2025 VCE Duces, who achieved a perfect ATAR of 99.95 and four perfect study scores in English, Biology, Chemistry and French. Now studying a Bachelor of Science at The University of Melbourne with the support of a Chancellor’s Scholarship, Olivia is embracing university life and exploring where her passion for science might take her.

Speaking to The Age following her VCE results, Olivia also reflected on the everyday moments of support that helped her through the year.

“It really came down to the late-night study sessions with my friends, the support after difficult SACs; it really helped you overcome the hurdles throughout the year.”

Now, six months into University, Olivia is enjoying the independence of university study and the flexibility to explore different areas of science before deciding on her major.

Finding her feet

For Olivia, the transition from school to university has been a positive one. She has particularly enjoyed the independence of study and the ability to customise her classes and timetable.

The social side of university has also been a pleasant surprise. Like many students preparing to leave school, Olivia wondered what it would be like to move from the familiarity of Ruyton to a much larger university environment.

“I was relieved when I discovered that really, making friends at uni is not remotely as daunting or as challenging as it seems. When everyone is in the same position as you, slightly nervous and feeling awkward that they don’t know anyone, you will have no trouble finding your people.”

Getting involved has helped Olivia build her new university community. Having been involved in Service Team, STEM and Sustainability, productions and student leadership at Ruyton, she quickly became involved in university clubs and is now part of the marketing team for the Science Students’ Society.

“I am so grateful for the community I am a part of, the regular social events I get to attend, and also unexpected things like the support and advice of older students.”

Exploring what comes next

Academically, Olivia is particularly enjoying the breadth and flexibility of the Bachelor of Science. Rather than feeling pressure to have her future mapped out, university has given her the opportunity to explore different disciplines and possibilities.

“My future study plans and career goals have already drastically changed many times this year, and I feel very grateful to not have to pick my major yet.”

It is an experience that has shaped the advice she would give current Ruyton students as they consider their own lives beyond school.

“It is 100% okay to not know what you want to do! I still don’t!”

Olivia also encourages students heading to larger universities to take advantage of orientation opportunities, particularly camps and activities before semester begins. For Olivia, attending the Science Students’ Society orientation camp made a significant difference to her confidence starting university.

Looking ahead, Olivia is already planning her next adventure, saving towards travelling abroad and completing an exchange as part of her university experience.

What she misses about Ruyton

While Olivia is clearly enjoying this next chapter, there is one part of Ruyton she particularly misses.

Olivia’s first months at university have been about exploring new possibilities, building connections and discovering where her interests might lead. For someone who achieved so much at school, she is equally comfortable embracing the uncertainty of what comes next.

Her story is a reminder that there is no single path after Ruyton, and that sometimes the next chapter is about discovering what comes next rather than already knowing.