Home Hill State High School 2025 Valedictorian Grace Ogomeni

By Chelsea Ravizza

Grace Ogomeni graduated from Home Hill State High School (HHSHS) as 2025 School Captain and House Captain with Valedictorian honours, and an exceptional adjusted Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) of 99.95.

“Graduating as Valedictorian really consolidated the determination and perseverance I put into my studies throughout such an overwhelming year,” recounted Grace.

An ATAR of 99.95 is the highest possible ranking recognised nationwide, with Grace celebrated as one of just 37 students across the state to achieve the top score.

“It felt so rewarding seeing that my efforts paid off,” she said.

“I also feel like this achievement served as a reminder that despite coming from a small rural school, academic excellence is most definitely possible.”

Achieving such a respected honour certainly isn’t obtainable without years of planning and preparation. Grace carefully designed her study routine with assessment and exam due dates in mind, setting aside a few hours each day to ensure she achieved her desired level of overall academic success. In her 13 years of schooling, Grace had narrowed down exactly what study techniques worked best for her, scrapping activities like meticulous note taking and employing methods involving flashcards, active recall and teaching content to her family and friends.

Grace carried herself throughout Year 12 as HHSHS’ School and House Captain; two very well respected and commitment heavy titles.

“Balancing my leadership responsibilities as School Captain and House Captain alongside studying was challenging,” said Grace.

“Initially, I didn’t manage the stress and pressure very well, and was quite overwhelmed. However, I learnt the importance of prioritising time for myself.”

Grace quickly focused on intentionally setting aside time for herself to reset and enjoy leisurely activities and hobbies like cooking, spending time outdoors, or fitting in a gym session.

“I became more intentional about taking breaks, and I also found that staying organised and managing deadlines alleviated a lot of stress,” Grace explained.

“Most importantly, I relied on the support of my family, friends and teachers. It was comforting knowing I had people I could talk to and unpack my stress in a healthy way, rather than bottling it up.”

With her busiest academic year to date now behind her, Grace advises future seniors to steer clear of the overcommitment whirlwind that many students get swept up in.

“My advice to current Year 12’s is to remember it’s not the end of the world,” Grace urged.

“Your results don’t define your worth, so be kind to yourself and understand that some sacrifices will be made, but balance is just as important. With good time management and productivity, you can still have fun and be social.”

Grace has recently celebrated her acceptance into James Cook University to study a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery, which will commence next month, and hopes to one day work towards specialising as a neurosurgeon.

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Grace Ogomeni was congratulated as Home Hill State High School's 2025 Valedictorian. Photo source: HHSHS

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