For Lian, the MLC experience was a long‑term journey rather than a single chapter. Starting in the Junior Years and progressing all the way to graduation gave her a strong foundation – one that shaped how she approached learning, leadership and balance. By the time she reached Years 11 and 12, she had a clear sense of direction and the confidence to make the most of every opportunity. 

Choosing the ATAR Pathway was a deliberate and well‑considered decision. “It was the most direct route into university and aligned with my academic goals,” Lian explains. With her future in mind, she selected subjects that reflected both her interests and academic strengths: Applications, Methods, Chemistry, Chinese Second Language and Literature. “I really enjoyed maths and science, and these were the subjects I felt most confident in,” she says. 

This clarity allowed Lian to approach ATAR with focus and consistency. Familiarity with the College environment meant she could concentrate on managing workload, refining routines and maintaining momentum across her studies, rather than adjusting to constant change. Senior School became an extension of a journey she already understood how to navigate. 

Leadership also played a significant role in Lian’s Senior Years through her position as Athens House Prefect. For Lian, leadership was grounded in action rather than authority. “To me, leadership meant leading by example,” she says. Representing Athens was an opportunity to give back to a House community that had been part of her schooling for many years. Leading carnivals and House meetings proved especially rewarding, and she describes the role as one of the highlights of her time at MLC. 

Alongside academics and leadership, sport remained a constant. A dedicated swimmer and highly active participant in co‑curricular sport, Lian’s commitment was recognised through her induction into the IGSSA 25 Club. Rather than viewing sport as competing with her studies, she saw it as an essential part of maintaining balance and wellbeing. 

Managing that balance became particularly important in Years 11 and 12. “I focused on completing most of my schoolwork during the day so I could focus on training and rest in the afternoons,” she explains. With early mornings in the pool, maintaining a consistent routine and prioritising sleep were non‑negotiable. This structured approach helped her sustain both academic focus and physical commitment without feeling overwhelmed. 

Since graduating, Lian has embraced a new chapter at university. She has commenced a Bachelor of Human Sciences and Doctor of Pharmacy at the University of Western Australia, enjoying the academic challenge while continuing to explore where the pathway may lead. After the intensity of her final year, she has also appreciated the opportunity to relax and reset, carrying forward the habits and routines that supported her throughout Senior School. 

When asked what advice she would offer younger students, Lian points to the principles that guided her own approach. “Try to stay as organised as possible and get work done early rather than leaving it until the last minute,” she says. Equally important is self‑awareness – knowing when to rest and when to push. “Co‑curricular activities are a great way to relieve stress and maintain a healthy balance alongside your studies.” 

Taken together, Lian’s MLC journey reflects the value of steadiness and intention. From her early years at the College through to graduation, she developed an approach to school life that allowed her to grow without compromise. It is this balance – between challenge and wellbeing, commitment and care – that has prepared her not only for university, but for the opportunities that lie beyond.