For many students, Year 12 is a defining year – one filled with important decisions, new challenges and the anticipation of life beyond school. For HMEF scholarship recipients, having a dedicated coach throughout this journey provides an additional source of encouragement, guidance and connection.
For one Year 12 scholarship recipient, Eve, her relationship with her coach, Amanda, has become one of the most valued aspects of her HMEF experience.
“For me, coaching sits at the heart of the HMEF scholarships. All the resources and wonderful opportunities provided truly do come second to hearing kind words of support from a person who genuinely cares about you and is invested in your success.”
A trusted source of support
As she navigates the demands of her final year of school, Amanda has been there to support her through both the challenges and opportunities that come with Year 12.
“Being in year 12 this year, my coach Amanda has been supporting me the whole journey. She’s made me a much more confident young adult and really helped prepare me for the challenges ahead and life after school.”
For students approaching the end of their secondary education, the transition beyond school can feel both exciting and uncertain. Having a coach who takes the time to listen, understand and encourage can help students approach that transition with greater confidence.
For Eve, the value of coaching goes well beyond conversations about academic results or future pathways.
“I look forward to our catchups because they are so much more than just another adult talking at me about QTAC and ATAR and exams; they are a conversation.”
A relationship built on genuine connection
At the heart of her experience is the relationship she has developed with Amanda. Her coach provides guidance while also creating a space where she feels heard, supported and believed in.
“She supports me and guides me from the perspective of a friend who genuinely believes in me.”
This personal connection is an important part of the HMEF coaching experience. While coaches can provide practical guidance around study, pathways and life after school, their role is also about being a trusted person students can turn to throughout their scholarship journey.
The importance of reaching out
Reflecting on her experience, Eve also acknowledges that taking the first step to connect with her coach has not always come naturally.
“I think something I struggled with in the past and probably still now is reaching out to my coach instead of waiting for them to contact me.”
Her experience highlights an important message for fellow scholarship recipients: students don’t need to wait for a scheduled catch-up or for their coach to make contact. Reaching out, sharing an achievement or talking through a challenge can be an important part of building a strong coaching relationship.
Her advice to other students is simple:
“To anyone who is doing the same, please reach out, share highlights and struggles, coaches are such amazing people who want to hear from you and more importantly help you in any way they can.”
Making the most of your HMEF coach
The HMEF volunteer coaching program is about more than providing students with another source of advice. It is about creating meaningful relationships that support students as they grow in confidence, navigate challenges and prepare for their future.
For Eve, Amanda’s support has made a lasting difference – helping her feel more confident as she approaches the next chapter of her life.
Her final message to fellow scholarship recipients is one of gratitude and encouragement:
“Thank you to all the amazing coaches – be sure to reach out and make the most of these incredible people’s help!”
Her story is a powerful reminder of the impact that a supportive relationship can have. Alongside the opportunities and resources offered through an HMEF scholarship, coaching provides students with something equally valuable: someone in their corner who genuinely believes in them.
