Following an outstanding final year at Ruyton, Siyuan (Lucy) Huang achieved a perfect ATAR of 99.95 as one of our 2025 VCE Duces. Now studying a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Melbourne, Siyuan is pursuing her interests in finance and economics, with aspirations to undertake an exchange at Fudan University in Shanghai and pursue a career in international trade law and policy.

A foundation for success

Throughout her time at Ruyton, Siyuan was known for her positive attitude, intellectual curiosity and genuine commitment to the School community. A highly engaged member of her Mentor Group, she embraced opportunities both inside and outside the classroom and was a valued role model within Bromby House. Siyuan worked closely with younger students, earning the respect of her peers through her kindness, generosity and reliability.

Her organised and conscientious approach to learning enabled her to achieve outstanding academic success. At Speech Night, Siyuan was recognised with the Award for English Language, the Award for Specialist Mathematics (Shared) and received the title of Ruyton Master Scholar.

From VCE to university

Since graduating, Siyuan has embraced new experiences, including a long overseas trip with friends to destinations they had daydreamed about during school.

In March, she began studying a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Melbourne, with plans to major in Finance and Economics. While she was nervous about starting university, she was also excited to meet new people and discover a different side of herself.

“I slowly discovered a more extroverted side of myself, probably because I kept giving myself pep talks to reach out to new people.”

Joining student clubs has helped Siyuan settle into university life, connecting her with friends across different year levels. Outside her studies and work, she has also returned to old hobbies and picked up new ones, including journalling, arts and crafts, and spending time with family and friends.

Looking back on VCE

University has brought Siyuan greater independence and responsibility. While she enjoys the flexibility of university life, she has also learned the importance of being self-driven and taking initiative in her learning.

She credits Ruyton with helping her develop the curiosity and confidence to ask questions and seek support when she needs it.

“The curriculum at Ruyton has deeply cultivated my curiosity and initiative in learning.”

The support she received from her teachers helped her carry that approach into university, where she has continued to seek clarification and make the most of available guidance.

Looking back on VCE, Siyuan encourages students to stay focused on their goals while being patient and compassionate with themselves.

“Hold onto your goals, stay consistent with your efforts, but always be kind to yourself. Please trust that all the hard work you put in will pay off eventually!”

Exploring new interests

Siyuan's interest in Commerce was shaped in part by subjects she studied at Ruyton, including Money Management and VCE Accounting. At university, she is enjoying the opportunity to explore financial and economic concepts in greater depth, particularly those connected to everyday life.

“My favourite area by far is international trade/businesses and the global economy.”

Studying these topics has inspired Siyuan to consider a future career in international trade law and policy. She is also exploring opportunities beyond her studies. During the winter break, she participated in a consulting project that allowed her to apply what she had learnt in a practical setting.

Curious about the world and passionate about travel, Siyuan is looking forward to new experiences and the perspectives they bring. In her own words:

"Currently, the most exciting update I have would be that I am in the process of applying to go on exchange next year! I am hoping to study a semester at Fudan University in Shanghai, and I cannot wait for this new chapter!"

What she misses about Ruyton

While Siyuan is enjoying the opportunities university has brought, she misses the close-knit community she experienced at Ruyton.

Siyuan's first months beyond Ruyton have been filled with new experiences, friendships and opportunities to explore her interests. Guided by her curiosity, she is discovering new passions, pursuing the possibility of studying in Shanghai and embracing the opportunities that come her way.

Her journey is a reminder that the next chapter doesn’t need to be mapped out from the start. Sometimes, it’s about staying curious, trusting in what you’ve learnt and being open to where new experiences might lead.