The pressure of the HSC is overwhelming, but what if we focused less on ATAR scores and more on what comes next—Year 13?

Too many students are pushed into university pathways without real exploration of their strengths, interests, or alternative career options.

Whether it’s university, TAFE, apprenticeships, freelancing, or starting a business, Year 13 should be about designing a future that excites them. It’s time to shift the conversation from test scores to real-world possibilities.

What if the key to finding a career you love isn’t about choosing the “right” job, but about following your curiosity? Many people feel stuck in unfulfilling careers because they ignore the very things that naturally interest them. Your bookshelf, YouTube subscriptions, Google search history, and even the conversations that light you up all hold clues to what excites you.

Instead of overthinking your next career move, start noticing what captures your attention. When do you lose track of time? What topics make you feel energised instead of drained? Flow states—those moments of deep focus and enjoyment—are one of the biggest clues to a fulfilling career.

The most successful people didn’t have a perfectly mapped-out career plan. They followed what interested them, explored different opportunities, and refined their path along the way. You can do the same. Experiment, explore, and trust that your curiosity is leading you somewhere meaningful.

Read the full article to discover how to turn your curiosity into a career path that excites you.