Alex Ventress, the 2024 Girls Vice-Captain at Albury High School, has left an indelible mark on the school community with her exceptional leadership and academic achievements. Undertaking a demanding schedule that included English Advanced, Mathematics Advanced & Extension 1, Economics, Legal Studies, and Modern History, Alex was one of only four graduates in 2024 to achieve an ATAR over 90. Her dedication and focus were evident throughout her studies, especially in Legal Studies and Modern History, where she achieved Band 6 results of 92 and 91, respectively. Despite the intensity of her academic workload, Alex also found time to excel in sports, winning a first-grade premiership with the Albury Hotspurs, alongside fellow graduates Daisy Tuksar, Roisin Wilson, and Ashleigh Carty.
Reflecting on her time at Albury High, Alex credits much of her success to the leadership opportunities she embraced. As Girls Vice-Captain, she developed her communication, leadership, and organizational skills, and had the chance to participate in Leadership Days that deepened her involvement in the school and local community. "Being Vice-Captain gave me the chance to improve my leadership skills, which will be valuable as I move into the future," Alex shared. She also enjoyed the camaraderie of school sports, with soccer trips and bus rides providing a much-needed outlet from academic stress. Her involvement in volleyball allowed her to explore a new sport and create lasting memories with her friends.
To ensure a healthy balance between her academic and personal life, Alex made the important decision to stop working at HAPI at the end of January 2024. “I decided to prioritise my schoolwork and well-being by stepping back from my job to reduce stress and promote a better school/life balance,” she explained. This decision allowed her to focus more on her studies, which ultimately contributed to her outstanding results.
In 2026, Alex will begin a double degree in International Relations and Law at Monash University, driven by her passion for law and its potential to help others. "I’ve always been interested in law because it provides an opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives," she explained. Throughout her Year 12 studies, Alex developed a keen interest in International Relations, especially its pathways into international organizations, NGOs, and humanitarian aid. As she transitions into university life, Alex is confident that the skills she has gained at Albury High—time management, collaboration, and maintaining a healthy work/life balance—will serve her well in her future studies and career.
Alex’s journey through Albury High School has not only shaped her academically but also personally, preparing her for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. As she heads to Monash University, Alex is poised to make a significant impact in both the legal and international relations fields, and the Albury High community looks forward to seeing all she will achieve in the years to come.
