School leavers go their own way
TWO teens with completely different career paths share one thing in common.
Last year Jake Pressey and Paul Black, both 17, completed their Queensland Certificate of Education.
Both had the intention of completing their final year of school because they felt it was something to be proud of.
"I wanted to finish Year 12 so I could look back and not have any regrets," Theodore boiler fitter Jake said.
Jake started a school-based apprenticeship while studying at Moura State High.
He was also lucky to secure an apprenticeship two months before finishing.
"I was really happy I landed a job, but I didn't want to waste so many years of study and not finish it."
As for Paul, he scored an OP of 5 after graduating at Gladstone State High School after shifting his focus to music.
Moving to Brisbane to study a Bachelor of Music at the Griffith Conservatorium, he one day hopes to teach music to students.
With a knack for playing the trombone and euphonium, Paul said it was his dedication to music that got him through Year 12.
"I was aiming for a single figure OP and I was lucky enough to get it," Paul said.
"Students this year should do the best they can and make sure they are doing what they enjoy. Because that's what drives you in the end."
And Jake agreed.
"I look up to my Uncle Jason for inspiration. He's a boiler maker and fitter and he's done a lot for himself in his career," he said.
"I know some people who have spent all their time studying and ended up working at Target.
"You need to do what makes you happy and you'll go a long way."
