We recently reached out to some of our high-achieving 2024 QACI graduates who were happy to share what they are up to now...
Rudrodipto Roy 
Congratulations on achieving an IB45!
Rudro is studying a Bachelor of Advanced Finance and Economics (Honours) at the University of Queensland. He has a passion for the fast-paced finance industry and is keen to explore and apply his interest in mathematics within a high profile role.
“Equipped with the rigour and skills of mathematical analysis and technical knowledge of finance and economics, I am keen to pursue a career in fund management, investment banking or consulting. The aim is to improve financial awareness via working with businesses and individuals, and ensuring financial prosperity in an increasingly competitive world.”
After achieving the 2024 IB Dux and topping his classes for Mathematics Analysis and Approaches HL, Chemistry HL, Biology HL and Psychology SL, Rudro was awarded the University of Queensland Vice Chancellor’s Scholarship.
Helen Butler 
Congratulations on achieving an IB43!
Helen is studying a dual degree Bachelor of Science/Arts at the University of Queensland, majoring in Physics, English Literature, and Drama, and minoring in Applied Mathematics.
With so many passion areas, Helen is keen to pursue a career in either technical theatre and production, physics or teaching.
Reflecting on her QACI journey, Helen cites her collaborative theatre pieces in Year 11 and Year 12 as key highlights.
“I’m also very proud of my solo Butoh piece - my final piece of theatre in the IB and such a massive improvement for me since Year 10.”
Suraj Eswaran 
Congratulations on achieving an IB42!
Suraj is studying a Bachelor of Music at Griffith University to pursue a career as a musician.
When reflecting on the International Baccalaureate Learner Profile attributes, Suraj feels “Balanced” most resonates with him.
“Don’t create false dichotomies with the way we lead with life. Through a cohesive life we can only attain sustainable progress.”
Nicole Huang 
Congratulations on achieving an IB42!
With a passion for science and health, Nicole is keen to pursue a career in dentistry and is studying Dental Technology/Prosthetics at the Griffith University.
A proud moment for Nicole during her QACI journey was achieving subject awards for both Biology HL and Chemistry HL in Year 11.
Nicole cites “Inquirers” and “Knowledgeable” as the two key International Baccalaureate Learner Profile attributes that resonate with her, reflecting on the collaborative environment in the classroom.
“We constantly worked together to understand our IB subject, and asking questions from teachers and friends helped a lot during our IB journey.”
Nayl Fassi-Fihri 
Congratulations on achieving an IB42!
Nayl received the Tuckwell Scholarship and is studying a Bachelor of Science majoring in Astrophysics at the Australian National University.
“To become an astronaut has always been my dream and I am incredibly grateful to be able to study towards that goal.”
Nayl’s proudest achievements at QACI were the Theatre performances, and particularly his final Butoh performance.
Nayl feels the “Inquirer” IB Learner Profile attribute resonates most with him.
“Always being driven by a curiosity and thirst for learning was the reason I was able to succeed at QACI.”
Charlie Mae O'Connor 
Congratulations on achieving an IB42!
Charlie Mae is studying a dual degree in Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Laws (Honours) to pursue a career in diplomacy.
“I’d like to pursue work as a diplomat, and maybe from there, an ambassador.”
One of Charlie Mae’s proudest achievements during her QACI journey was receiving subject awards for both Global Politics and French in Year 12.
Jaehee Lee 
Congratulations on achieving an IB42!
Jaehee is studying a Bachelor of Arts/Laws (Honours), majoring in International Relations and Political Science at University of Queensland to pursue a career as a human rights lawyer.
“I aspire to provide legal assistance and support to organisations that often lack the resources and expertise needed to advocate for justice effectively.”
From interviewing a politician, Aboriginal advocates for Indigenous representation, and a legal professional for her Voice to Parliament investigation, to analysing how contemporary media portrayals of marginalised youth in crime across Australia demonstrated illegitimate exercise of power; Jaehee cites both her Global Politics IA and EE as key achievements in her academic journey at QACI.
“Both assignments were incredibly rewarding, providing me with valuable experience and deeper into issues of human rights and justice.”
Zach Peterson 
Congratulations on achieving and IB42!
Zach is studying a Bachelor of Arts/Laws (Honours) at the University of Queensland, and also hopes to study a Diploma of Languages to continue learning Spanish.
“I’m interested in any career path which revolves around helping others. I would love to pursue a career in criminal law to provide advocacy for individuals who need it. I am passionate about any field of law which involves helping individuals.”
“Inquirers, Reflective, and Caring are the attributes which ultimately resonate most with me because I am incredibly passionate about learning and critically reflecting on the knowledge I acquire. Furthermore, when we reflect on our impact on the world, it becomes evident how important it is to be kind and caring and to empathise with those around us.”
Finley Johannessen 
Congratulations on achieveing an IB42!
Finley is studying a Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) at the University of Queensland. Finley is particularly interested in researching the ecology and conservation of rare and endangered species.
“I am interested in spending time outdoors performing fieldwork, and passionate about protecting what makes Australia and our planet so unique and special ecologically.”
One of Finley’s proudest achievements in his QACI journey was the Extended Essay component of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.
When reflecting on the IB Learner Profile attributes, Finley feels “Inquirers” resonates most with him. “I love learning and asking questions to gain greater understanding and knowledge.”
Alexander Tomon 
Congratulations on achieving at IB42!
Alexander is studying a Bachelor of Music (Creative Music Technology and Composition) at the Queensland Conservatorium (Griffith).
Gisella Vickers 
Congratulations on achieving an IB41!
With dreams of becoming a musical theatre performer or director, Gisella is studying a Diploma of Musical Theatre at the Queensland College of Dance.
“I would love to affect people and bring the stage alive.”
One of Gisella’s proudest achievements at QACI was the collaborative experience in creating and performing her Muse Theatre performance “Spilt Milk” which received positive feedback from audiences.
Mira Chiu 
Congratulations on achieving an IB41!
Mira is studying at the University of Queensland in Gatton.
“I aspire to become a veterinarian due to my deep passion for animals and my desire to make a meaningful difference in their wellbeing. I am driven by the need to ensure that I am equipped with the knowledge and skills to help my own horse or dog in times of need, rather than feeling helpless. Additionally, my strong interest in the sciences and mathematics has led me to pursue this path, as it aligns with my academic interests and long-term goals.”
“The attribute “inquirers” resonated the most with me, as I remember constantly seeking answers from my teachers throughout my IB journey. From IAs to exam questions, I had inquiries about nearly everything and would often find myself staying after class to ask about yet another topic.”
Benjamin Lee 
Congratulations on achieving and IB41!
Ben is studying a Bachelor of Biomedicine into Provisional Medicine at the University of Queensland with aspirations to pursue a career in psychiatry and mental health fields. Reflecting on the IB Learner Profile, Ben feels that the attribute “Open-minded” resonates with him most.
“During my time at QACI, I learnt so much about the different perspectives that people have, and learning about these perspectives has changed the way I understand and view people for the better. I feel like I understand people better as a whole.”
Rian Castilla Franco 
Congratulations on achieving and IB40!
Rian is studying a Bachelor of Journalism/Arts.
“It’s my dream to travel and report on the stories that matter to me. However, I’m also studying International Relations in the Bachelor of Arts, and would also love to work with an intergovernmental organisation like the UN or with NGOs to address the global issues and causes I’m passionate about!”
An active member of the QACI Media Team, Rian cites their role as Yearbook Coordinator as one of their proudest achievements.
“It brought me so much joy and really ignited my interest in media and journalism.”
“The best thing you can do for yourself at this point in life is to live a balanced life. I think balance is something we should all really value and strive for in our lives.”
Monique Ng 
Congratulations on achieving an IB40!
Monique is studying a Bachelor of Medical Science at the University of Sydney with hopes to pursue a career in medicine or medical research, aiming to specialise in surgery.
One of Monique’s proudest achievements was having the opportunity to conduct research for her Extended Essay in collaboration with the Queensland University of Technology.
For Monique, the “Balanced” IB Learner Profile attribute resonates most.
“The IB is a lot of work and content to cover over a two-year period, therefore having balance in the content, IAs, TOK, EE, whilst also having time to yourself is the hardest but most rewarding part of the IB.”
Varuna Sharma-Brymer 
Congratulations on achieving an IB40!
Varuna is studying a Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Queensland with a goal to pursue a career in medicine.
“My proudest achievement at QACI is receiving the opportunity to use my leadership skills for the betterment of QACI through Student Director.”
Reflecting on the IB Learner Profile, Varuna feels the “Principled” attribute resonates most with him.
“I believe honesty, integrity and discipline are some of the most important qualities a person can have. Being honest with yourself and others, sticking to your morals, and holding yourself accountable are essential for leading a healthy and fulfilling life.”
Lola Hamilton 
Congratulations on achieving an IB40!
“I’m passionate about biology and keen to pursue a career in medicine, with a focus on making healthcare accessible to everyone. I’m especially interested in how science and innovation can help tackle the gaps in healthcare systems around the world.”
Lola received the ADF Future Innovator Award in Year 12, which she believes she received in recognition of her Extended Essay,
“For my essay, I explored a medical science topic with real-world significance and had the amazing opportunity to collaborate with QUT, gaining hands-on experience with tertiary-level research.”
Lola is inspired by the IB Learner Profile attribute, “Risk-takers.”
“Whether it’s learning a new language, stepping up in a debate, or trying a different sport, I force myself out of my comfort zone. It’s not always smooth sailing, but it’s always an adventure.”
Phoebe Sultana 
Congratulations on achieving an IB 39!
Phoebe is part of the first cohort studying in a new hybrid embedded student program course for a Bachelor of Medical Radiation (Nuclear Medicine) in partnership with the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) and Queensland X-Ray.
“The ability to help and care for people in the medical industry while also being constantly surrounded by rapid innovation and growth makes me extremely excited for all the possibilities of the future.”
When reflecting on the IB Learner Profile attributes, Phoebe feels they all resonate with her.
“The IB attributes are so embedded in daily life it’s impossible to not use and notice them everyday.”
Danielle Yang 
Congratulations on achieving an IB 39!
With a strong passion for the arts and an aim to forge a career in the music industry, Danielle is studying a Bachelor of Music majoring in Classical Guitar Performance at the Queensland Conservatorium.
Danielle finds herself particularly drawn to five IB Learner Profile attributes: Open-minded, Reflective, Thinkers, Inquirers and Communicators.
“As a musician, it has been really important to me to stay open-minded to new concepts and others’ ideas and perspectives, and to do that, I’ve needed to be a thinker, inquirer, and communicator. Being able to convey my thoughts and beliefs while being curious about others’, and thinking critically and reflecting on these ideas has been really important to me, and I believe, or at least hope, that these are traits that will remain with me throughout my life.”
Cathy Bai 
Congratulations on achieving an IB39!
Cathy is studying a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) at the University of Queensland.
“I would like to pursue a career path in law as it would challenge me intellectually and continually motivate my learning.”
Cathy feels the “Inquirer” IB Learner attribute resonates most with her.
“Inquirer resonates most with me as I am driven by curiosity and cultivating skills for my personal learning.”
Beth Prior 
Congratulations on achieving an IB39!
Beth is studying a Bachelor of Science at the University of Queensland.
“I’d love to become a rural GP as this is a job which treats a variety of different issues in vulnerable communities, whom I would love to help support.”
The “Risk-taker” IB Learner Profile attribute inspires Beth.
“Most of my memories that I hold most fondly from QACI are from taking risks - such as taking theatre despite my stage fright or choosing the IB Diploma in the first place, despite knowing it’s challenging nature.”
Jinru Song 
Congratulations on achieving an IB39!
Jinru is proud to be studying a Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) at Monash University in Melbourne, a degree that is ranked 2nd globally following Harvard University.
“I always wanted to pursue a career in Health or Science. I chose more of a healthcare pathway because I want to help people with their daily lives. I also love film and media arts, so hopefully in the future I get to also keep that as a hobby or get opportunities to combine it with science.”
One of Jinru’s key highlights during her QACI journey was having the opportunity to serve as Connect Mentor. Jinru is also proud of her academic achievements including Academic Excellence and subject awards, and receiving the Quiet Achiever award in Year 12.
Emma Murphy 
Congratulations on achieving an IB39!
Emma is studying a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Queensland and planning to commence a dual degree with Law next year.
Emma is proud of her academic achievements including Academic Excellence awards in Year 10, 11 and 12, English Subject Award (Year 10), but in particular, she values the friendships forged within the QACI community.
“I resonate with Caring. If you care about what you do, it’ll never feel like work. And if you care for those around you, they’ll likely care for you back. It would have been impossible to get through the IB without the care from those around me; the QACI teachers and students are like no other.”
Finn Duncombe 
Congratulations on achieving an IB39!
Finn is studying a Bachelor of Creative Arts (Film and Screen) / Bachelor of Laws (Honours) dual degree at the Queensland University of Technology with aspirations to become a lawyer or producer in the film industry.
“I feel that these careers could really captivate the creative and analytical sides of my brain in a way that I find fulfilling and engaging.”
Reflecting on the IB Learner Profile, Finn says that risk-taking is an attribute that he tries to incorporate into all his endeavours - especially the creative.
“It’s very hard, as a teenager, to take risks. Likewise, It’s very easy to succumb to the fear of embarrassment and cringe. Having an awareness of this and fighting against it has really enriched my experience and broadened my perspective. I like to live by the following motto: In life, don’t kill the part of yourself that others deem ‘cringe,’ but rather, kill the part that cringes.”